Leroy Marshall Rowell

Leroy Rowell, was born March 13, 1927 in Hampden Maine to Fremont and Ida Mae Rowell. Leroy was the third of their four sons. He went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ at the age of 98 on August 7, 2025 at his home in Kingswood Senior Living Community.

Leroy had fond memories in Maine, rides on a hay wagon, chopping wood for the cold winters and learning to draw cars from his brother. Leroy and his brothers played in the high school band. He played the tuba.

Leroy faithfully served his country in the United States Navy during WWII earning a Victory Medal. Leroy attained an Associate Degree at a junior college and retired as a Draftsman for the United States Corp of Engineers where he worked for 23 years. Leroy volunteered in prison ministry in Lexington Missouri for 18 years. Leroy was married to his first wife, Betty, and they had one daughter, Berwyn. Leroy was married to Mary Rowell for just days short of 36 years and became a “father” to Mary’s sister, Kathy Mandacina. Leroy was a very good father to his “daughters.” Mary and Leroy took Berwyn and Kathy to the Special Olympics at Fort Leonard Wood, camp, Job One workshop and special trips to Branson every October.

He was a member of Colonial Presbyterian Church and loved and served his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He loved the old hymns, Amazing Grace, Blessed Assurance and The Old Rugged Cross. His favorite scriptures were “the love chapter” 1 Corinthians 13 and Psalm 23. Over the years, Leroy and Mary managed a thrift store for the handicapped, taught Sunday school for adults with developmental disabilities and volunteered in the Colonial Abounding Love ministry.

Leroy was one of the kindest people you could ever meet, he opened his heart to many with grace and gentleness. He will be remembered as loving, quiet and very kind. He loved Jesus, family, friends, bingo and chocolate!

Leroy is survived by his wife, Mary, and his daughter, Berwyn Rowell. A graveside service will be Tuesday, August 12, 2025 at Forest Hill Cemetery KCMO at 9:00 am. There will be a Celebration of Life service at Kingswood Health Center on Tuesday, August 12, 2025 at 10:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Simple Church Overland Park, 9316 W. 82nd Street Overland Park, KS 66204. Mary Rowell wishes to express her heartfelt gratitude to the residents and caregivers at Kingswood Senior Living Community for their support and care over the years.