Norman was brought peacefully into his heavenly home on November 18, 2025 at Bayfield Assisted Living following a lingering illness. Age 89 years, Norman was born to the late Arthur and Stella (Bigda) Rowell on July 2, 1936 at the family home in Bay City where he resided all his life. Norman was a faithful member of St. John's Ev. Lutheran Church of Bay City where he served as an usher elder and on the finance committee for many years. Norman worked for the United States Postal Service for 34 years retiring in October 1992. Norman loved gardening traveling, especially cruises, and spending time with his family and friends. Norman married the former Judith Lind, June 20, 1959. She survives him after celebrating 66 years of marriage.
Norman is survived by three children. Lori (John Frimpter) Rowell of Texas, Michael Rowell of Maryland, Pamela (Scott) Martin of Auburn. One bonus son and daughter-in-law Scott (Nancy) Carmona. Six grandchildren, Trey Rowell of Texas, Madison Rowell of Maryland, Lindsey Martin of Lansing, Brett (Marissa) Martin of Midland, Ryan (Mandy) Carmona of Auburn, Eric Carmona of Sanford. Four great grandchildren, Brady, Madison, Parker Carmona of Auburn, Baby Martin December 2025) of Midland. One brother Ronald Rowell of Florida, one sister Karen Langenburg of Saginaw. One sister-in-law Barbara Lind of Midland. Special niece and nephew, Debbie Rowell of New Jersey, Greg (Peggy) Rowell of Temperance along with other nieces and nephews. Special friends, Ray Stef, Tony and Chris Zamenski, Shirley Heinz, Margret Kolb Julie Kernstock, Amy Cox and Tiffany Burton.
Norman was predeceased by one granddaughter, Morgan Rowell of Maryland, his parents, father and mother-in-law, Jack Sr. and Molly Lind, his two sisters, Marilyn (George) Hollingsworth, MaryLou Rowell sister-in-law Sandy Rowell, two brother-in-laws, Jerry Langenburg, Jack Lind Jr.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Bayfield Assisted Living, Corso Care Hospice and to St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church and their pastors for the amazing care they provided Norman.
A funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church. Officiating will be Pastor Bare and Pastor Paul E. Schweppe with private interment at Floral Gardens Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family on Friday, November 21, 2025 at Gephart Funeral Home from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Saturday, November 22, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services at the Church. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be considered to St. John’s Evangelical Church.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
201 West Midland Street, Bay City, MI 48706
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.


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