Joseph Leonard Rowe

Joseph Leonard Rowe, 68, of Charlestown, passed away Tuesday, July 5, 2016. He was the husband of Janice C. (Ayotte) Rowe. Born in Springfield, MA, a son of the late Leonard and Edith (Cote) Rowe. Joseph was a chef for many years before retiring. He is a US Marine veteran serving in Vietnam and a recipient of the Purple Heart Medal for being wounded in the Battle of Hue City; loved spending time with his family, clamming, gardening, and going to the beach. He also loved music, playing his guitar and flute with his family and friends. Joe authored a book titled “The Gift” and was a major fundraiser for the construction of the Mo O Childrens Library in Vietnam through Peace Trees Vietnam. He is survived by his children Michelle Rowe of Charlestown, Jason Rowe and his companion Glori Chigos of Springfield, MA, and Evan Shephard of Hampden, MA; step-children, Captain Barnes and his wife Rachelle of Pittsburg, PA, Shonda Ayello and her husband Francois of Columbus, OH, Elisabeth Panciera and her husband Nicholas of Westerly, and Eleanor Berch Heyman Minor and her husband Timothy of Florence, MA; his sister Jackie Cofiell and her husband Jim of Enfield, CT; ten grandchildren, many nieces and nephews and four great nephews. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a committal service with military honors in the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Exeter, on Thursday, July 14, 2016 at 11 am. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Hope Hospice and Palliative Care, 1085 North Main Street, Providence, RI, 02904.