Richard Allen Rower

OTTAWA - Richard Allen Rower, 80, of Ottawa, died Sunday, November 1, 2026, in Ottawa after a long battle with renal failure. He was born August 21, 1946, in Detroit to Earle and Louise (Asch) Rower. On September 14, 1967, he married Linda Engard.

Surviving are two daughters: Kathleen (Chris) Roberts of Ottawa, and Jennifer (Michael) Lake of Casa Grande, AZ; a son, Rich (Tara) Rower, Bellbrook; a brother, Frank (Michaele) Rower; two grandsons: Jeremy (Brooke) and Tyler Balbaugh; and two granddaughters: Marlee and Quinn Rower.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Linda; his parents; a half-brother, Franklin Edward "Buzz" Rower; and a half-sister, Jean Frisch.

Richard served his country for 28 years in the Ohio Army National Guard, 837th Engineer Company, retiring as a First Sergeant. He retired from Ford Motor Company [Lima] after 47 years as a wastewater engineer. He enjoyed shooting billiards and spending time with his grandchildren and family.

Funeral services will begin at 11:00 a.m., Monday, November 9, 2026, at LOVE FUNERAL HOME, Ottawa with Pastor Kathy Kaufman officiating. Burial will follow in Harman Cemetery, Gilboa with military rites by the Ottawa American Legion, VFW, AMVETS and DAV. Visitation is from 9 to 11 a.m. on Monday, November 9, 2026, prior to the service at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to Putnam County HomeCare & Hospice.

Condolences may be expressed at www.loveheitmeyer.com