Robert Stanford Rowe
The man who knew no strangers and loved life to the fullest passed away on July 26, 2025 at home surrounded by family. He was known as Bob, Dad, Pop, or Popcorn. He was born in Mitchell, Nebraska on July 4, 1935, to Charles Stanford and Ethel Mae Rowe. Bob grew up in the quaint town of Henry, Nebraska, the youngest of eight children. He spent his elementary years in a one room classroom in Henry. He graduated from high school in Torrington, Wyoming.
Following high school, he enlisted in the US Navy serving in Guam, the Korean War, as a Seabee in addition to playing Navy football as a right guard. After his time serving his country, he moved back to Henry and began his career in the trucking industry that he passionately loved.
Shortly after, he met the love of his life, Judy. They were married on July 3rd, 1958, and spent 67 years building a wonderful life together. They were inseparable. They raised two children, Jay, and Vicki. Their lifelong journey together afforded them the opportunity to live in Wyoming, Colorado, Florida, North Carolina, and Georgia eventually returning to Florida as their final home where they took up residence in River Ranch, Florida. They were surrounded with numerous friends and family members. They were known as Mr. and Mrs. River Ranch. On any given evening, you would find a circle of their friends of all ages pull up in their golfcarts for happy hour at their place. It was the place to be and mingle.
While raising their children in Torrington, Wyoming, Bob and Judy were the original proud owners of Taco John’s. A thriving business that just recently closed.
Bob’s love for trucking and hot rods brought him to eventually own and operate his own antique and classic car transportation company, Top Gun Transport. Bob traveled the country hauling the most exquisite cars for the rich and famous. While attending a car show in Virginia, his career ended when he became a local hero by running after a runaway 18-wheeler that was headed for the interstate. He was able to run and jump on the sideboard of the truck and open the door to force the truck into a pasture saving lives. In the process he sustained a crushed ankle that halted his driving career. Bob was written up in the local paper for his heroic effort. That is the Bob everyone knew and loved. Always willing to do the right thing regardless of the consequences to help others.
Bob’s love for his family was fierce. He fought many health battles through the years and each time battled through them remarkably to be with his family. Bob is survived by his beautiful wife Judy, son Jay (Wava) of River Ranch, FL and daughter, Vicki (Jamie) of Zephyrhills, FL. Bob leaves behind his grandchildren, Ashlie (Jeromy), Brooke, Nicole and Heather and was pre-deceased by his only grandson, Cory. Bob was blessed with eleven great-grandchildren and four great great-grandchildren. He also left behind several nieces and nephews that adored him.
Bob fought hard till the end and was determined to be at his big 90th birthday and 67th wedding anniversary celebration held the end of June. What a wonderful living celebration it was leaving all attending with many special memories watching him enjoy the day, even giving us a last little dance with his bride. And, bidding all a farewell and telling all that he would see them next year. Bob’s sense of humor never left him. He was joking up until his final days.
Bob is predeceased by his wonderful parents and his loving siblings, Marvin, Frank, Dean, Norma Jean, Eva, Marylou, and Doris. What a beautiful Rowe reunion they will have as they all welcome him to his heavenly home.
Bob’s wishes were to celebrate his life and not mourn. He loved life and loved people. If you knew Bob, he would typically greet you with a bigger than life hello and a hug. He would tell you that he was blessed beyond measure and that he was doing better than he deserved to be. That was Bob.
A very special thank you to Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, FL for providing compassionate and quality care during his extensive treatment. To the Veteran’s Administration who provided the upmost respect, equipment, and care. To the Cornerstone Hospice team who cared for Bob in his final weeks. To his daughter, Vicki and daughter-in-law Wava who spent countless hours providing support and care. To Robin Curtis for spending the last 24 hours providing tremendous support to the family. To Pastor Ray Duncan for being with Bob and the family in his final hours. And to the best caregiver, his resilient and beautiful wife, Judy. That little lady never stopped loving or taking care of Bob day and night. Lastly, to all of Bob’s friends at River Ranch and beyond who also provided so much comfort and care.
Respecting Bob’s wishes, there will not be a formal service. We will hold on to the recent memories of his living celebration. In memory of Bob, contributions to the River Ranch Chapel specifically contributing the new children’s church being built would be appreciated. Bob loved and adored all children.
River Ranch Chapel
Children’s Church building fund
30122 River Ranch Boulevard
River Ranch, FL 33867
Our River Ranch legend will continue to live on in our hearts and memories. In your travels, grab a Dairy Queen blizzard in Bob’s memory. It was Bob’s favorite and his most requested item.
