November 2, 1950 – July 24, 2025

 

Joseph L. Rowe Jr., 74, of Swoyersville, PA, passed away peacefully on Thursday evening, July 24, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Ashley, PA on November 2, 1950, to Joseph L. Rowe Sr. and Agnes (Mangan) Rowe, Joe lived a life defined by love, dedication, and quiet strength. He was a man who worked hard, cared deeply, and left an enduring mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Joe is survived by his devoted wife of 55 years, Christina (Guziejka) Rowe, and their seven children: Jessica Yezefski, Joseph Rowe, Erik Rowe, William Rowe, Desiree Smith, Rebecca Smith, and Bonnie Smith. He was a proud and loving grandfather to 12 grandchildren and was joyfully awaiting the arrival of his first two great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by his sisters, Cathy Hailstone and Arline Penny, along with many cherished nieces and nephews. Joe is now reunited with his parents, his sister Karen Larson, and his brothers Robert and Frank, who we believe welcomed him into God’s kingdom with open arms.

Joe dedicated his career to the logistics and driver safety department at Keystone Automotive in Exeter, PA a role that not only supported his family, but also helped several grandchildren pass their driver’s tests, a fact he took great pride in. For over 35 years, Joe was a fixture in the Chacko’s Bowling League in Wilkes-Barre, where he found deep friendships and weekly joy.

A passionate community member, Joe coached his sons in the Swoyersville Sailors football league and Swoyersville Little League baseball during the 1980s and 90s, including leading a District 16 championship team. He approached coaching with the same dedication he brought to everything in life: with heart, humor, and a belief in the potential of those around him.

Joe took pride in the home he built with Christina, especially his pool and backyard oasis a favorite gathering place for family and friends. He loved to travel with his wife, cheer on the Eagles and Phillies (and, secretly, the Cubs), and proud member of the “jelly of the month club,” which was a source of light-hearted fun in his life.

He was a man of strength, laughter, kindness, and quiet wisdom. Joe’s love for his family was his greatest legacy one that will live on in stories told, traditions passed down, and the many lives he shaped through his example.

Joe is already deeply missed, but never forgotten.

A private celebration of Joe’s life was held at Chacko’s Bowling Center, a place close to his heart.