On December 12, 2024, Thomas J. Rowe, age 79 of Meshoppen passed away peacefully at home from a long fight with Parkinson's, surrounded by loved ones. He was cared for by a skilled team of loving caretakers whom made it possible for him to age peacefully at home.

Tom was the son of the late Francis E. Rowe and late Hazel Watters Rowe and late step-mother, Mary Saracino Rowe of Wilkes Barre, PA.

Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Walter Albrandt of Dimock and his sister-in-law, Carol Eigeldinger Rowe, of Ashley, PA.

Surviving Tom is his loving wife of 59 years, Marcella, who is the eldest child of the late Joseph Yenchik and MaryAnn Keisel Yenchik of Wilkes Barre.  He is also survived by his brother, Francis, of Ashley, PA and his sister, May, of Dimock, PA. Tom left behind seven children and their families:  Lisa (Frank) of Kingston, PA, Timothy (Debbie) of St Albins, West Virgina, Susan (Wayne) of Tunkhannock, PA, Melissa (Scott) of Springville, PA, Michael (Linda) of Wilkes Barre, PA, Andrew (Olivia) of South Montrose, PA, and Elizabeth (Paul) of Conklin, NY. Remaining also are 16 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and extended family.

Tom and Marcy were high school sweethearts and stayed together after graduation from GAR High School, Wilkes Barre, PA. He graduated with an Associate's Degree from Penn State in engineering. He soon went to work as a surveyor for Stuart Milnes and helped with the surveying and initial ground work for the Proctor and Gamble plant in Mehoopany, PA. During those years, he also worked for the Pennsylvania Game Commission as a surveyor for the state parks. He soon after accepted a job with Proctor and Gamble to settle down here in the area to raise his growing family. He was an avid lover of the outdoors. As a hunter and fisherman, spending time out there with his family was one of his greatest joys in life. When he couldn't be outdoors, he spent countless hours of his free time enjoying a good book, which filled the shelves of his den. His humor and knowledge of the world around him, made conversations colorful. He will be missed by a multitude.

A Funeral Service for Tom will be held on Thursday, December 19th at 6:00PM at the Sheldon Funeral Home, 8206 Main St., Meshoppen, PA 18630 and officiated by Deacon Raymond Pieretti of St. Joachims Roman Catholic Church.  Family and friends may call at the funeral home from 4:00 PM until the time of service.  Interment will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family.