Ronald Patrick "Pat" Rowe
A celebration of life will be held Friday November 1st at 4:30pm at the Squalicum Boathouse at Zuanich Point Park, 2600 Harbor Loop, Belingham. Bring your stories. Everyone’s encouraged to share and we’ll follow with pizza and Red Bull as a way to truly honor Pat.
Pat Rowe passed away peacefully in his Bellingham home with family at his side due to heart decline. Pat was born in Colfax, Washington to Clarence and Edith (Giles) Rowe. The family moved to Burlington when Pat was 6 years old. He contracted Polio at the age of 8. Pat graduated from Burlington High School in 1962. He graduated from Washington State University with a degree in Communications in 1966.
After college Pat went on to do sports broadcasting and selling advertising for a handful of radio stations. He eventually founded, and operated for the next 20 years, his own advertising company in Bellingham; Pat Rowe Advertising.
Pat was an invigorating force on the Bellingham Chamber of Commerce, being an integral part of founding WYP’s (Whatcom Young Professionals). He was an important member of the Bellingham City Council. In 1999, Pat was Mayor Pro-Tem during the pipeline explosion. He was known to be an honest councilman who cared deeply about city matters.
Pat had a great sense of humor, capable of eliciting the most incredible belly laughs. He was known for his incredible skill at schmoozing. He enjoyed his family and his grandchildren immensely. He loved fishing. Pat also loved watching and attending sporting events including Mariners Spring Training in Arizona for which he got the opportunity to do the pre-season announcing for a season.
Pat is survived by his son James “Skidders” Rowe and grandchildren Skyler, Samiah and Benny Rowe, as well as his sister Judy Houck and numerous nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, Pat has requested donations be made to Whatcom Hospice and Dementia Support Northwest. There will be a collection box for convenience at the celebration of life.
Memories
From Peggy & Kenny Holmes
So sorry to hear of your father’s passing. We used to party hardy with Pat in ELLENSBURG. One such party, we were all playing badminton (probably in O’Gorman’s yard) and your mom said, “my husband is the only one who gets grass stains on his ass instead of his knees!” Pat was a lot of fun to hang with! Lots of fun memories!
From Kathy & Joey Nelson
Pat was one of a kind...he brought something extra to our family. He's walking around enjoying himself free of any pain, and will be flying with his Angels watching his grandbabies. Rest in Paradise Pat. It was really fun knowing you!
From Gene Knutson
p>So sorry to hear about Pat,s passing. What a great man, he also was a great city councilman loved serving with him. He was a honest straight shooter and always wanted the best for Bellingham’s. “Sleep My Brother May Peace Be With You”
From Bonnie Jo Sprague
In years gone by I was thankful for the fire in his heart and the light in his eyes.
From Jim Ruble
Pat was a great friend. I will miss his wonderful sense of humor and concern for others. While his passing is a huge loss, I will always treasure each moment we shared. The memories he created will be his life-long gift to those of us who had the pleasure of his company. Thank you, my friend.
From JamesRowe
Thanks for this memory. When I heard about a party in Ellensburg I was not sure where this story was going so thanks for picking this one. I have heard about the Ellensburg parties.
From JamesRowe
Thanks Kathy and Joey! I cant wait to see you guys again. It has been to long!
From JamesRowe
Bonnie,
You were a major factor in my dads life and I know you made his life so much more for many years.
From James Rowe
Gene,
While I dont know if we ever met your name was well known in our house. Thanks fo rth ekind words.
From Jerry & Leanne…
“Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only true friends will leave footprints in your heart.” That describes Pat Rowe. He was a friend to all he met. RIP Pat.
From Heidi Devereux…
Not only was Pat a dear friend of my mother, Sue Rasmussen (Susie Forst), I worked with Pat in Cable advertising for several years. He was kind and funny and such an inspiration! I learned so much from him and have so many wonderful memories! My love to his family! Heidi
From Phyllis McKee
I remember when Pat (and family) moved to Burlington. His father was principal at Westview School. Even though Pat was some-what of a new-comer -- considering he had not started 1st grade with most of the rest of us -- he was a major player in school government, and one of the key leaders at our subsequent class reunions.
Later on Pat got me involved in volunteer positions for City of Bellingham. First was a Mayor's Benchmark Committee, and then the Parking Commission, and now the Planning Commission.
I was sad and sorry to see of his passing.....
From Alice & Jery O…
Pat brought joy to many and was loved my many. He will be well remembered and deeply missed.
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