John A. Rowles

JOHN A. ROWLES

John A. Rowles, 88, of Carlisle, passed peacefully at home on Thursday, June 1, 2023.

Born January 26, 1935 in Shippensburg, he was the son of the late Cornelius M. and Violet (Thomas) Rowles.

Hardworking, loving, kind, patient, and caring are words family and friends use to describe John. He dearly loved his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Perhaps most endearing name was “Happy Pappy” because he was always smiling and could brighten the day with a joke followed by his beloved laugh. John was a mentor to many and respected by all who crossed paths with him. From chopping wood until almost 74 to his last go round on a pair of roller skates at 75, John lived a full and happy life.

John was a 1955 graduate of Boiling Springs High School where he played football from 1953-1955. 

John owned and managed Johnny’s Willow Street Market in Carlisle and  was employed by several area grocery stores as a produce and dairy manager. Mr. Rowles coached M&Z Little League baseball team and Cement Products Teener League baseball team in Carlisle for many years.  John was also a Webelos leader for Pack 189 in Carlisle for several years.

Surviving are his wife:  Kathryn (Weidner) Rowles; a daughter, Kathy Swope and a son, Mitchell Rowles, both of Carlisle; and a brother, Kenneth Rowles (Jackie) of York.  Also surviving are 8 grandchildren: Sheena Patel (Jay), Marissa Swope, Jeffrey Swope ( Rebecca), Cheyenne  Harvill (Samuel), Kayla Winton (Kevin), Mariah Rowles, Trystan Rowles (Alexis), Braedon Rowles and 8 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by sisters, Mary Smith and Patricia Dry; and a daughter, Gretchen Sue Rowles.

Services will be private at the convenience of the family and burial will be in Goodyear Cemetery.