Richard G. “Dick” Rowe, 86, of Middleburg, FL passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 24th, 2026 at Haven Hospice, Orange Park, FL, following a long battle with heart disease. Born January 10th, 1940 to William and Myrtis Rowe in New Haven, CT, he graduated high school and joined the US Air Force where he served as a jet engine mechanic in the Vietnam war. Following his 13 years of service, he began a career in long haul trucking and retired in Florida. He was active in American Legion Post 250 in Middleburg where he served as Post Commander for nine years. During that time, he successfully fought to keep the post functioning during the Covid-19 pandemic and implemented many positive changes at the facility. An avid Harley Davidson motorcyclist, Dick rode extensively with fellow Legion Riders on local and regional jaunts and charity rides and took annual solo motorcycle trips from Florida to Michigan and Ohio to visit family 1100 miles away. He also enjoyed racing dirt track stock cars, a passion he carried into his retirement years by following NASCAR. He will be remembered for his feisty personality and his dedication to serving the community, especially fellow veterans. A devoted father and grandfather, Dick loved spending time with his family and friends. He was preceded in death by his sister Patricia Lussier and his first wife Sharon. He is survived by his wife Laura Rowe, sister Susan Doolan of New Haven, CT, sons Rick Rowe of Las Vegas, NV and Mark Avery (Mandy) of Phoenix, AZ; daughter Bobette Posey (Douglas) of Stryker, OH; stepsons Andy Musil (Diane) of St. Augustine, FL and Mike Musil (Leigh Anne) of Saline, MI. Also surviving are two nieces, one nephew, eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 am on Sunday, April 19th at the American Legion Post 250 in Middleburg, FL, with Post Chaplain Kenny Greenway officiating and a celebration luncheon following. Dick’s cremains will receive a last motorcycle ride enroute to the graveside service. Interment will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, May 3 with full military honors led by Dick’s lifelong friend, Roy Zimmerman of Clayton, MI, at Evergreen Cemetery on Burt Rd. in Ransom, MI near Hillsdale, with Rev. Kim Repp officiating.

In lieu of flowers, you may donate in Dick’s memory to the American Legion Post 250, 2608 Black Creek Dr., Middleburg, FL 32068.