Ann Marie Rowe

Ann Marie (Poteri) Rowe, 85, of Halifax, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2026, in Halifax. The youngest of four children of the late Grace Charlton and Anthony Poteri, Ann was the last surviving member of her immediate family.

Born on June 21, 1940, Ann spent the first 61 years of her life on her beloved Deacon Street, before moving in 2001 to be closer to her children and grandchildren.

A woman of deep and abiding faith, Ann was a lifetime member of St. Theresa’s Parish in Halifax. She was privileged to serve as an Extraordinary Minister of the Eucharist for 36 years and was honoured to bring the Blessed Eucharist to shut-ins. Ann also served as a Grade 4 and Grade 7 Catechist at Oxford School, a Confirmation Catechist, and was an active member of numerous parish committees.

Ann generously volunteered with many charitable organizations, including the Heart & Stroke Foundation, Kidney Foundation, Cancer Society, and the Nova Scotia Cancer Centre’s Radiation and Chemotherapy units at the QEII Health Sciences Centre.

An avid reader, skater, dancer, and bowler, Ann competed in many bowling tournaments locally and throughout the Maritime provinces. She had a great love for cats and opened her heart and home to many strays over the years, each one dear to her. Ann also enjoyed word games—especially Scrabble, Boggle, and crossword puzzles—and could be found enjoying the comfort of a cup of tea and kitchen table conversation.

Ann was employed for many years as Secretary to Canadian Air Operations at CFB Shearwater. Upon leaving the Department of National Defence, she continued her career at Bloomfield School, Halifax School Board and Department of Public Works. She spoke often of her most rewarding position as a School Crossing Guard at Almon and Dublin Streets - a role she cherished and thoroughly enjoyed.

Ann is survived by her children Traise (Rob) Bevans, Tim (Joan) Rowe; Kelly (Tony) Richards, Lisa (Kevin) Wyer, and Maryann (Phil) May; grandchildren Emily, Marc, Katelyn, Andrew, Liam, Owen, Barb, Ben, Erin, and Seth; and great-grandchildren Nero, Augustus, and Hudson, as well as several nieces & nephews.

Ann was predeceased by her husband of 59 years Gordon, her parents Grace & Anthony, sister Bernice (Bee) Vandertoorn, brothers Jack and Brendon (Tony) Poteri, granddaughter Kailee Richards, and her forever friend Bev (Vickers) Martell.

A special thank you is extended to Kyler Auguste, who lovingly cared for Ann—whether at home, on outings, or simply enjoying time in the sunshine.

Visitation will take place at Snow’s Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive, Halifax, on Thursday, January 15, from 5:00–8:00 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Saint Agnes Roman Catholic Parish Church, 6903 Mumford Road, Halifax, on Friday, January 16, at 9:00 a.m. Internment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bide Awhile Animal Shelter or a charity of your choice.