Charles Kenneth Rowland (Choppy)

A photo of Charles Kenneth Rowland (Choppy)

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Chuck  “Choppy” Rowland, who passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family.

Chuck was the beloved husband of Rosemary Rowland (nee Wilkie) for 62 wonderful years. He was the devoted father of Kelley Lansens (Curt), and Richard Rowland (Shirley). He was the proud grandfather of Addam  (Ali), and Andrew Lansens, Michael, Madison and Matthew Rowland. Choppy was a brother-in-law to Dennis and Colleen Wilkie, and Denise Wilkie (predeceased by brother-in-law John Wilkie). Choppy was also an uncle to a niece and many nephews who will remember his antics and miss his sense of humour.

Chuck’s career began in 1965 when he accepted his first teaching position in Kent County.  In 1998, he retired from his position of Superintendent of Schools in Huron-Perth.  He was also actively involved in many committees and volunteer organizations in his lifetime.

Chuck “Choppy” will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew his big personality, wit and all of his stories that were treasured by his family and friends.

We wish to thank the Chatham Kent Health Alliance medical staff for their care and concern.

In memory of Chuck, a donation can be made to a charity of your choice.

A private family gathering will be held to celebrate Chuck at a later date.

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  • To all the family of Chuck as I knew him during and after teaching days,please accept my deepest condolences on the passing of this wonderful gentleman. I got to know Chuck better as we did some woodworking together and I was privileged to take a couple of trips onto Lake Erie with him on his sailboat. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him whether in the capacity of a teaching colleague or as one of his students. God bless him and may he rest in peace. Sincerely, John Schofield
  • Sending sincere condolences to Chuck's family. My first teaching job was at Queen Mary P.S. with Chuck being the vice principal and Don Braddon the principal. They were by far the best administrators of my entire teaching career...efficient, personable, supportive and definitely fun. He was truly a great guy!
  • Dear Rowland family,
    My heartfelt sympathy on the passing of a great man! He was my principal at Queen Mary school circa 1978-1980.
    I adored him! He always made the students feel seen and heard. Even in the most challenging times. His sense of humour was a gift.
    I know you'll cherish all the many happy memories- Choppy leaves behind a beautiful legacy! He will be missed!
  • Condolences to the family and friends.
    I once took Mr. Rowland flying over his house and area.
    Later, I had an event while towing a glider from CFB Trenton to Centralia. We ran into night time and landed at Goderich airport.
    With no accommodations for the night, Mr. Rowland offered us to use his cottage for the night.
    He was a great. Vice-Principal at Queen Mary P.S.
  • Mr. Rowland’s was a fair man, I’m thankful to have had him as one of those that taught me when I was young.
    RIP
  • This man helped me when I was in the children's aid society. I was in need of firm but caring redirection I was full hate and pain. Took the time to tell me people do care . I remember that day and I needed an adult with kindness. God bless you and take into his arms
    Dan Smith
  • Condolences to the family and loved ones. Choppy was a very likable person..his personality shown thru..My late husband Bob and myself would visit with Choppy and Rosemary when they lived on MCNaughton ...Bob had great respect for him..RIP Choppy
  • My condolences to family. Mr. Rowland was such a positive influence on many of us that attended Queen Mary School.
  • My condolences to the Rowland families. Attended QM in late 1960’s, and again in the mid 70’s. Mr Rowland was a fair Vice Principal and later Principal of Queen Mary, only strapped once, out of order with Mr Cochrane’s class with 3 others.
    Had two other brothers who followed me through school system, Jim and Mike. My younger brother Mike met Mr Rowland out at Robinson’s Motorcycle dealership east of Wheatley riding on his Yamaha motorcycle.
    For those who attended the QM reunion in fall of 2017, was significant for many, and was great that Mr Rowland attended with a few other teachers. It was great to catch up with him, back then. Thank you Mr Chuck Rowland for your services at Queen Mary School.
  • Kelly and family. So sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. Best principal ever and his smile lit up the hallways.
  • My condolences, Mr. Rowland was our neighbour on Warwick along with my principal at Queen Mary.

    He is a man I had great respect for. RIP
  • My deepest condolences to the family
    Mr. Rowland was one amazing guy
    I was honoured to have had him at Queen Mary Public School and he was first and last person who taught me to behave he gave me my first strap for causing trouble and believe me I never did it again
    Then I seen him in the mall years later and he knew me and gave me a hug and an apology for punishing me lol
    RIP sir
  • Rosemary,Kelley,Richard And families. We send our deepest condolences on The loss of Choppy.
  • Sincere condolences to Rosemary and family. I enjoyed working with Chuck when he was Superintendent of Special Education in Huron County. He was dedicated to his profession and his family. We solved problems but also enjoyed many laughs together.
  • My sincerest condolences. Mr. Rowland was the principal at Queen Mary School when I was a student. He was always a fair, respected and understanding person.
  • I was so fortunate in 1984 to be hired by Choppy at Harwich Raleigh Public School. He gave me the chance to enjoy the profession I loved for 30 years. I remember first meeting him at Queen Mary Public School in 1971-72 as the vice principal. I have so much respect for Mr. Rolands and will cherish the wonderful staff functions he organized while at Harwich Raleigh! A great man who will be dearly missed but never forgotten! Condolences to the entire family. Love ya Choppy.

    Ty
  • My sincere condolences Rosemary and family.
  • We are so sorry for the loss of your father, you are in our thoughts.
    He certainly sounded like a wonderful man

    I had the Pleasure of have him as a Principal in Public School He was a good Man
  • My sincere condolences Rosemary, on the loss of Chuck. It always made everybody’s day when the two of you would show up at the Legion and Chucks big smile said it all. Many thoughts, Alice and Tam
  • Curt & Kelley
    We are so sorry for the loss of your father, you are in our thoughts.
    He certainly sounded like a wonderful man
    Jim & Denise Shanks