Neal Thomas "Tom" Rowe, 83, of Port Charlotte, Florida, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2026.

Tom was born on May 6, 1943, in North Conway, New Hampshire, to Lyman Leslie Rowe and Carrie Isabel (Brooks) Rowe. He graduated from South Berwick High School in 1961 before attending the Thompson School of Agriculture at the University of New Hampshire, where he graduated in 1963.

Following college, Tom enlisted in the United States Army and served in Germany. It was there that he met the love of his life, Heidemarie Reuter. The two were married in 1966 and began a beautiful marriage that would span nearly 60 years.

In 1967, Tom, Heidemarie, and their young daughter moved to Columbia County, New York, where they built a life and raised their family. He began his career as assistant manager of the Agway Farm Supply stores in Claverack and later Chatham. After several years, he started his own carpentry business, using his craftsmanship and strong work ethic to provide for his growing family. Along the way, he fulfilled another dream by purchasing a farm, raising animals, and becoming a beekeeper.

At the end of his life, Tom said, "I enjoyed a full life. I did everything I wanted to do." Those who knew him would agree. Whether serving his family, working with his hands, or serving the Lord, his Christian faith was the foundation of his life and shaped everything he did. He faithfully supported missions and participated in several mission trips to Cuba and Haiti, where he shared the love of Christ while using the skills God had given him. Together with his wife, he enjoyed serving as a Salvation Army bell ringer each Christmas season.

For the past 20 years, Tom made his home in Port Charlotte, Florida. He loved being on the water—fishing, boating, and spending time with family and friends. He became an active member of the Peace River Sail & Power Squadron, where he recently served as Chaplain. Whether on the water or working in the soil, Tom found great joy in God's creation. An avid gardener, he delighted in tending his garden and watching it grow.

Perhaps Tom's favorite role was that of Opa. He delighted in helping his grandchildren with projects around their homes, generously sharing his knowledge of carpentry and construction. Whether teaching a practical skill, offering wise advice, or lending a helping hand, he found great joy in serving his family. In recent years, he especially loved spending time with his great-grandchildren, making memories with the newest generation of his growing family. 

Above all, Tom will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, beloved Opa, faithful servant of Christ, and a man whose life pointed others to Jesus through his humility, generosity, and steadfast faith.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 60 years, Heidemarie (Reuter) Rowe; his brother, Allan B. Rowe of Rochester, New Hampshire; his children, Christina (Rowe) Pitcher, Rebecca (Rowe) Hamm, Andrew Rowe, and Peter Rowe; 13 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lyman Leslie Rowe and Carrie Isabel (Brooks) Rowe; his sister, Rita Gail (Rowe) Ham; and his daughter, Lydia Daniela Rowe.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the missions ministries of Calvary Assembly of God, 2813 Atlantic Avenue, Hudson, NY 12534, or Murdock Baptist Church, 18375 Cochran Blvd., Port Charlotte, FL 33948.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 1, at 12:00 p.m. at Calvary Assembly of God, 2813 Atlantic Avenue, Hudson, NY 12534.

A second Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 22, at 10:30 a.m. at Murdock Baptist Church, 18375 Cochran Blvd., Port Charlotte, FL 33948.