Clifford James Rowe

Clifford James Rowe, a longtime resident of Queen Anne and parishioner of St. Anne’s church passed away after 93 years of sharing his quick wit, humor, laughter and generosity of which he gave unconditionally.

Cliff grew up on Capitol Hill and attended Immaculate Grade School then on to O’Dea High School. The summer following his Junior year at O’Dea, Cliff worked as a Merchant Marine. As WWII came to an end, his vessel was deployed to Asia aiding in the removal of naval artillery from ships. Upon his return from Asia, O’Dea welcomed him back to graduate with his Class of 1947. This is when Cliff embarked on a 41-year maritime career. Cliff was hired as an oiler on the infamous MV Kalakala, Black Ball Line, which in 1951 became the Washington State Ferries. Cliff furthered his career with Washington State Ferries becoming a Staff Chief Engineer on his own volition then promoted to Marine Superintendent, responsible for the management of the fleet. Cliff returned to the MV Yakima as Staff Chief Engineer prior to his retirement from Department of Transportation WSF in 1987 after 39 years of service.

Cliff married Irene a graduate of Providence School of Nursing, Seattle College. They married in 1948 and shortly after moved to Queen Anne, purchasing the family home and raising their eight children. As a young family man, he loved to take the family on camping trips and road trips to Flathead Lake in the red Volkswagen bus. Turning our dear friend’s tent into a first aid station. Nights riding back from Ballard and a sing along to “a cold winter’s evening”. But our most heartfelt memories will be forever held through the Tales of Sam the Seagull. Cliff and Irene were married 56 years when she passed away in 2004.

The next chapter in life was his newly found joy in Claire Steck and were married in 2005. Claire brought a new enthusiasm to his life as well as her extended family. Upon Claire’s passing, Cliff embarked on a new adventure of independent living at Merrill Garden’s where he always had a smile on his face and a joke on his lips.

Cliff was known for his humor, intelligence, admirable work ethic, problem solving abilities and his joy of completing the Sunday New York Times Crossword in pen. A man of many talents, carpentry to auto mechanic, electrician and plumber. He was always willing to help a neighbor or friend with DIY projects or enjoy a cup of coffee with good conversation and the required cookie or two.

With heartfelt thanks to his caregivers Ibow, Titus and Irene who provided much more than just care but companionship and kindness.

Clifford was preceded in death by Irene, Claire, daughter’s Carol and Susan, twin daughter’s and baby boy.

Clifford is survived by his children Martin (Linda), Charlotte, Mary, William, Robert (Teresa), PJ (Lynn). Claire’s children Jane, Julie, Janet (Werner), Jolene (Stephen), Jeff (Monica), Joan (Michael), Joel, many grandchildren and great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

A private family burial was held on July 6, 2022.

     In lieu of flowers donations can be made to

Providence Hospice of Seattle Foundation,

2811 S 102nd Street, Ste 220, Tukwila, WA 98168

To sign the guestbook please go to harveyfuneral.com