Dorothy M. Rowland

Dorothy M. Rowland, 72, a lifetime resident of Springfield died Tuesday, March 18, 2008 in Mercy Medical Center.

She was born March 1, 1936 the daughter of Omer M. and Nannie (Hoop) Grove and was a graduate of Springfield High School.

Dorothy was retired from Ontario Stores and was a member of Good Shepherd Evangelical Lutheran Church.

She is survived by three sons and two daughters-in-law Barry A. and Tiffany Rowland of Springfield, Garry K. and Cindy Rowland of Irvine, California and Jeffery L. Rowland of New York, New York; one daughter Melissa E. Rowland of Queens, New York; brother and sister-in-law Donald and Blanche Grove; sister Mary C. Hause; sister-in-law Gertrude Grove, all of Springfield; seven grandchildren Justin, Ben and Spencer Rowland, Elizabeth and Mitchell Lowry, all of Springfield, Julie and Lisa Rowland of Irvine, California; several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband of forty-seven years William E. Rowland in 2001; three brothers Omer “Gene”, James and Frank Grove.

Friends may call Thursday from 5-8 PM. in the RICHARDS, RAFF & DUNBAR MEMORIAL HOME. Funeral services will be held Friday at 11:00 AM. in the Memorial Home with Pastor Bill McKee officiating. Burial will be in Ferncliff Cemetery.

The Rowland family would like to extend their “Thanks” to the staff at Ridgewood Care Center and Mercy Medical Center for their kindness and care during Dorothy’s final days, and a special expression of their gratitude to Dr. Marios Panayides and his staff for the many years of exemplary care to both Dorothy and Bill. Memorial contributions may be made to Ronald McDonald House.