Arthur LaValle Rowe

On March 7, 2025 our beloved Dad and Grandad passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family. To the very end he sang a good song, treated everyone he met with kindness, and had a joke for any occasion.

Born in Strathmore, Alberta, Art was the youngest of five children. His father was a United Church minister who instilled a deep sense of integrity and compassion in all his children. His mother was an accomplished pianist who gave him a love of music which lasted his whole life. He sang in choirs and played trombone, euphonium, baritone horn and tuba in many different bands. He was a life member of the Edmonton Musicians Association.

Art started working for Northern Alberta Railways in the late 1940's. His fascination with trains led to his career as a railroad accountant, and after retirement he continued to enjoy model railroading.

He married Dorris Blonski in 1951 and they enjoyed seven decades of marriage before she passed away in 2021. They raised their children Arthur, Vivian, Margery & Kathryn in Edmonton and then followed them to Victoria in 2007. Art and Dorris were active members of the United Church and their community wherever they lived, and after settling in Victoria enjoyed being members of Cordova Bay United Church and Cordova Bay 55+ Club.

A loving Granddad to Karma, Jesse, Jasmine, Taylor, Francis, Elliot & Lawren, the greatest tragedy of his life was Taylor's sudden death in 2004. Great-grandchildren Emma, Eva, Maceo, Sadie, Taylor, Scarlett, Molly, Nora, Mila & Sophie were all very dear to him.

The family is profoundly grateful to the dedicated staff at Berwick House and to Dr. Priya Rosenberg for their care.

A celebration of life will be held on June 8th at 2:00 pm at First Memorial, 4725 Falaise Drive. No flowers, please. Donations can be made to a charity of your choice.