Charles William Rowland

Lt. Col. Charles William Rowland, USAF, Retired. Dec. 29, 1918 - August 10, 2005 Born in Tacoma, Washington to Ralph and Edith Rowland, who along with his sister, Dorothy Gullett, preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his beloved wife, Audrey, to whom he was devoted in marriage for over 48 years. Charles Rowland was a proud graduate of Stadium High School, class of 1937. He excelled in football and discovered his love for Big Band music while at Stadium. Col. Rowland joined the Army Air Corps during the early days of WWII and became an officer by attending Officer Candidate School. He later served in the 8th Air Force, 384th Bomber Group located in Grafton Underwood, England. This is where he met the love of his life, Audrey Wittering. Following the war, he remained in the Air Force Reserve until he had served more than 20 years. "Chuck" Rowland went from sweeping the floors of Tacoma's I. W. Johnson Machine Works to owning the business, and was also successful in real estate investments. He and Audrey were fortunate to be able to retire to their summer home on Treasure Island in Grapeview, WA, when Chuck was 57. While living on the island, they enjoyed many friends, especially neighbors Lowell and Juleann Mahugh. Golf was a favorite pastime, and Chuck served his community as a Grapeview Fire District Commissioner. Chuck is survived by his dear friend and companion, Elsie Zehe, and by three children: Michael Rowland of Shoreline, WA; Randy and Nancy Rowland of Seattle, WA; and Stephanie Horton of Treasure Island. Charles was the proud Grandpa of Rachel and Andy Rowland and the very proud adopted "dad" and "grandpa" of many people including the Watts family of England, the family of James Horton of Edmonds, and his beloved nieces Judy Pepper, Patricia Smith and Carol LaSource. In his later years, Chuck was involved in many 384th Bomber Group reunions, Stadium High School class reunions and special monthly lunches with his fellow Stadium classmates. He was also actively involved in Memorial Lutheran Church in Bremerton, WA, where his faith in God grew strong. There is no doubting Heaven is his home. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday August 16th at 1:00pm at Memorial Lutheran Church, 916 Veneta Avenue, Bremerton. A joint memorial service for both Charles and Audrey Rowland will be held in Burton Latimer, England in the near future. No graveside services. Stephanie Horton and Randy Rowland would like to extend heartfelt thanks to all who have brought such joy to our father during these recent months. In lieu of flowers, remembrances would be much appreciated at the Sanctuary Church, 312 North 95th Street, Seattle, WA 98101. Thank you.