John Bruce Rowland Jr.

Born on February 8, 1942 to John “Jack” Rowland and Dorothy Wheeler Rowland of Wellesley and Osterville, John attended Brooks School and Colorado College. After graduation, he enlisted in the National Guard Reserves with his best friends, Charlie Hunt, Charlie Bascom and John Brooks and called their group “Superman” for their ability to make anything happen. This group went on to become early members of a wine club that met annually for fine dining experiences for over 50 years.

John spent all his career in sales working for The Telephone Company, Fibronics and J&R Engineering. After retirement in his 70’s, he volunteered at the Salvation Army of Hyannis several days a week as a cook, where he worked until recently.

John loved to cook and to share his love of food and wine with his family and friends, always referring to himself as a “foodie”. His unique sense of humor will be remembered by many, and he loved to tell stories of his travels, his youth and memorable meals he created. John had a huge heart and would go out of his way to help anyone. He loved cooking, reading, playing tennis, his dogs, giving back and spending time with his family. Every Sunday, you would find him testing his brainpower with “Check Your Knowledge” in the Cape Cod Times with his buddy, Mark Cote.

He is survived by his three children, Jessica Hazelton (Jim), Chuck Rowland (Sandy), Julia Hyland (Kevin), as well as three grandchildren Finn Hazelton, Willow Hyland and Shelby Hyland. He is also survived by his sister Sue Chollet, niece Becky Chollet and nephew Chris Chollet.

A private memorial and celebration of life will be held later.

Donations in John’s memory may be made to his favorite charities: Special Olympics and Salvation Army of Hyannis.