James A. Rowe

SKANEATELES - James A. Rowe, 58, of Route 38A, Skaneateles, passed away unexpectedly Friday, Feb. 12, 2016 due to a logging accident.

Jim was born Aug. 1, 1957 in Auburn, a son of Stanley Rowe Sr. and Bertha Eberhardt Rowe. He was a graduate of Moravia Central School and attended Delhi College. Jim spent his entire life in the farming field. Growing up on the family farm in Niles, N.Y., and learning from his mom and dad, he became passionate with working the land. He was involved with the Pioneer Hybrid Seed Co. for several years as a salesman. In 2000, he began implementing organic farming practices and was one of the first farms in the area to become certified organic. He enjoyed fishing, ice fishing, hunting, and harvesting firewood. He strongly believed in Quality Deer Management.

His biggest passion in life was his children and grandchildren. He was a role model to them and many young men from the Moravia/Niles area. Jim showed his children that with hard work and determination you could accomplish everything you wanted out of life. He was an extremely proud grandpa, always doting on his granddaughter and grandson.

Jim will be greatly missed by his family, and all who knew him.

His is survived by his three sons, Adam J. Rowe, of Skaneateles, Aaron S. Rowe (Nicole), of Auburn, and Ryan A. Rowe (Alyse), of Skaneateles; his grandchildren, Chloe Knauss-Rowe and James D. Rowe. Also surviving is his mother, Bertha Eberhardt Rowe, of Skaneateles; brother, Stanley (Sharon) Rowe Jr., of Burgaw, N.C.; girlfriend, Beth Whitney, of Skaneateles; several nieces, nephews, and many cousins, aunts, and uncles. He is also survived by the mother of his children, Valerie Rowe, of Auburn.

He was predeceased by his father, Stanley I. Rowe, and his two sisters, Darlene Burke and Laurie Greene.

Calling hours will be held from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 19 in the Owasco Reformed Church, Route 38A Owasco. Funeral services will be at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 20, 2016 in the church.

Upon Jim's request, he will be cremated and his ashes spread on the family farm in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to your local fire company.

Arrangements are with the Wade Funeral Home, Moravia.