Obituary of James Robert Rowe

In Loving Memory of James Robert Rowe

A Life Well Lived

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James Robert Rowe. He was a cherished father, uncle and friend known for his unwavering belief that he could fix anything. Known as Jim Bob, he was born on February 14, 1943 in Lubbock, Texas, and from an early age, he exhibited a remarkable passion for repairing anything and everything.

Early Life and Education

Jim Bob grew up in Lubbock, Texas, where he attended high school. It was there that he entered an automotive program and excelled, winning recognition at a State Skills Contest.  Following his graduation, Jim Bob pursued higher education at Southern Nazarene in Bethany, Okla. It was there that he met his wife of 33 years, Dorothy Parker.  

Career and Accomplishments

To support his family, he went to work at Hudiburg Chevrolet in Midwest City where he became the Corvair specialist for the region. He remained there until a jet from Tinker Air Force Base crashed, wiping out the dealership and the neighborhood where the family was living. Hudiberg then transferred Jim Bob to their NW Highway location in Oklahoma City, where the family settled, and Jim later opened his own automotive repair shop.

Family and Personal Life

Jim Bob was a loving husband, father, granddad, and friend. With Dorothy, he had three children, Candy, David and Mark, and together they built a loving home filled with laughter and joy. He took immense pride in their accomplishments and growth.

Outside of his professional life, Jim Bob was an avid pilot. As a Member of AOPA (Airplane Owner’s Pilots Association), he and Dorothy loved attending airshows and monthly fly-ins to BBQ restaurants around the state. He often spent his free time teaching others to fly.

Legacy and Remembrance

Jim Bob’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and dedication. He touched the lives of many, and his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be remembered for his gentle nature, his ability to fix anything, and his unwavering support for those around him.

A celebration of Jim Bob’s life will be held on Saturday, January 25 at 2 p.m., at Greenhill Funeral Home in Owasso, Oklahoma.  In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to the AOPA Flight Training Scholarship Program (aopa.org).

We find solace in the knowledge that Jim Bob’s spirit will continue to inspire and guide us. He lived a life of purpose and love, and he forever will be in our hearts as the great Jim Bob Rowe, loving husband, father, granddad, and mechanic, Mr. Fix Anything, Mr. James Robert Rowe.