Jean B. Rowe

Born in Englewood, New Jersey, to Neils and Anna Bruun, Jean was raised in Bergenfield. She attended Holy Angels Academy in Fort Lee and earned her Registered Nurse degree through the Englewood Hospital School of Nursing.

On April 11, 1953, Jean married the love of her life, Cecil V. Rowe, Jr., in Hackensack, New Jersey. Together they built a life centered on family, raising their children in River Vale while also creating treasured memories at their farm in Wysox, Pennsylvania.

A dedicated nurse, Jean returned to the profession after raising her family. She served as a substitute school nurse for the River Vale Board of Education and worked at the Jewish Home in both River Vale and Rockleigh. Her commitment to helping others never wavered, and she continued nursing until retiring at the age of 74.

Jean believed strongly in serving her community. She was an active member of the River Vale Ambulance Corps Women's Auxiliary and, after Cecil's passing, became a dedicated member of the Ambulance Corps itself. She also volunteered as an English as a Second Language instructor through the River Vale Library, helping newcomers gain confidence and connection through language.

Family was always at the center of Jean's life. She delighted in summers spent at the beach with her children and grandchildren, tending her gardens, and enjoying the peace and beauty of the family farm. She cherished every opportunity to gather with her growing family and took special joy in becoming a great-grandmother. Jean also loved to travel. Whether cruising with her dear friend Alida or exploring Europe with her children, she embraced adventure and created memories that would be shared for generations.

Jean was predeceased by her beloved husband, Cecil V. Rowe, Jr., in 1977.

She is survived by her daughters, Susan Smith and her husband William, Nancy Mechling and her husband James, and Elizabeth Kalonaros and her husband George; her son, Timothy Rowe and his wife Lillian; her 11 grandchildren; and her 19 great-grandchildren.

Jean's life was defined by kindness, service, resilience, and love. Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Funeral to be held at 12:45 PM at the grave site in the George Washington Memorial Park, 234 Paramus Road, Paramus, NJ 07652. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St Jude Children's Research Hospital.