Obituary of Robert J. Rowlands

Robert J. Rowlands Sidney, NY Robert J. Rowlands, 85, of Sidney, died peacefully on Sunday, December 4, 2011 at Albany Medical Center. Bob was born on February 23, 1926 in Barneveld, NY, son of John and Mary (Barnes) Rowlands. He graduated from New Berlin Central School. He earned his Bachelor of Education Degree from Oneonta State Teachers College, a Masters Degree in School Administration and Supervision from Syracuse University, and a Masters Degree in Guidance Counseling from Colgate University. He also attended the Boston University Summer Program on counseling and won a General Electric Scholarship. In August of 1944, he was called to serve the United States Army and on April 16, 1945, was injured in combat in Germany, for which he received the Purple Heart. He began his distinguished teaching career at the Pleasant Street School in Sidney, NY. He taught English and went on to finish his career as a Guidance Counselor, retiring in 1976. During his years at Sidney Central School, he was a freshman basketball coach, girls' basketball coach and eighth grade baseball coach. He also enjoyed being the official scorer for Varsity boys' basketball from 1954 to 1976. On July 16, 2005, he was inducted into the Sidney Central School Alumni Association Wall of Fame for Distinguished Alumni and Educators. His dedication and support to the Alumni Association was his passion. In his early retirement, when he was well enough to do so, he would volunteer at The Hospital assisting with rehabilitation programs for patients needing physical therapy. Bob is survived by his loving daughter, Betsy Rowlands Knox of Ooltewah, TN; sister, Laura (Everett) Kane of Mt. Vision, NY, as well as several beloved nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his devoted wife of 48 years, Jean, his brother Albert "Oz" and his niece, Pamela of Edmeston. Bob enjoyed gardening and bird watching and was most happy making people laugh. His amazing personality and wit will be deeply missed. Rest in peace Dad. We are all so grateful that you are no longer in pain. May God forever keep you in his loving arms. Funeral services will be held at 11:00am on Monday, December 12, 2011 at C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel, 21 Main St. Sidney, NY 13838. Burial with military honors will follow in Prospect Hill Cemetery, Sidney. Friends may call on Sunday, December 11th from 2:00-5:00pm at the funeral chapel where the family will be in attendance. Memorial gifts in Bob's name may be directed to the Sidney Alumni Association, PO Box 2186 Sidney, NY 13838 or to the Sidney Community Foundation, PO Box 333 Sidney, NY 13838. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.landersfh.com. Arrangements are under the direction of C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel, Sidney.