Phillip Ray Rowe

Beloved husband of Carole for 53 years. Loving father of Barbara Pryor and Sharon (Brian) McNamara. Proud grandfather of Makayla and Michael. Brother and Brother-in-Law of Linda Carbajal, Dennis (Jo) Rowe, Susie (Bob) Poe, Nick Rowe, Rick Rowe, Kenny (Diane) Rowe, Lenny (Tina) Rowe, the late Nellie Rowe, Carolyn Rowe, and Glenda Rowe. He is also preceded in death by his parents, James and Elsie Rowe.

Phillip was a simple yet creative man with an insatiable desire to tinker. A self-proclaimed “backyard mechanic,” he was often found in his garage, fixing engines or fabricating car parts. Phil was a dedicated member of the UAW and a leader in his work as a toolmaker, training other machinists and representing his colleagues as a Union Steward.

Phil had a deep love and respect for the planet, shaped by a childhood rooted in the Appalachian Mountains. His adventurous spirit led him to explore the outdoors, teaching his wife how to scuba dive and ride a motorcycle. He often took his family canoeing and taught his children how to fish. His kind and gentle nature will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by all who knew him.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at the Highland Chapel of the Elton Black & Son Funeral Home, 3295 E. Highland Road. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at the funeral home from 3:00 pm until 8:00 pm. Mr. Rowe will be interred at the Greenwood Cemetery in Hadley, Michigan, on Friday, April 4, 2025, at 11:00 am.