Dorothy D. Rowan

Dorothy D. Rowan, known lovingly as Dorothy, passed away on June 28, 2023, in Morgantown, WV, after a brave battle with cancer. Born on March 31, 1938, in Scott's Run, WV, she was the daughter of Steve and Anna Yanchus Duski. Dorothy was a beacon of faith, generosity, and humor, leaving an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Dorothy was the heart of a large and loving family. She is survived by her two daughters, Tonya M. Rowan of Morgantown and Tasha H. Rowan (Jason Johnson) of Brighton, MI. She also leaves behind two sisters, Helen Skalecki of Morgantown and Anna Mae Martin of Richwood, WV, as well as two brothers, Edward Duski, of MI and William Garcher of SC.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband of 32 years, Teddy C. Rowan, her parents, and six siblings. As one of 11 children, Dorothy understood the value of family, always extending her love and care to those around her. She was known to be a Mother and Grandmother to her community and extended family.

Dorothy was a proud graduate of University High School, class of 1955. Her strong work ethic was evident in her varied career, which included jobs as a Soda Jerk at the Moore and Parroiott Drug Store, a clerk at Royal Furniture, Equitable Life Assurance, Dr. Margaret Stemple, and Mon County Vo Tech. She displayed remarkable resilience and determination, often working additional jobs during the times her husband was on strike from the coal mines. In 1968, after both had followed their own paths, Dorothy married Teddy, and they built a life together filled with love and mutual respect.

Dorothy was a dedicated member of St. John University Parish. In her youth, she was a regular attendee of St. Ursula's Catholic Church, and later St. Theresa's. Her devotion to her faith was evident in her daily life, and she found joy in prayer and service. Dorothy's generous spirit was also manifested in her love for gardening. She cultivated beautiful flower and vegetable gardens, often giving away much of her harvest to feed multiple families. Her kindness and generosity extended to all aspects of her life, making her a cherished member of her community.

Dorothy D. Rowan had a sense of humor that was infectious, and she could always be relied upon to lighten the mood with her funny anecdotes and cheerful disposition. She will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, sister, and friend. She was a pillar of strength, a source of laughter, and a beacon of faith. Her memory will continue to inspire those who knew her, reminding them to live with kindness, generosity, and a sense of humor.

She will be deeply missed, and her legacy will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

Friends will gather on Monday, July 3, 2023, at the St. John University Parish from 9 AM until Mass of Christian Burial at 11 AM with Rev. Fr. Phillip R. Szabo as celebrant. Dorothy will rest beside her husband at the East Oak Grove Cemetery following Mass.

Per family request, In lieu of flowers donations can be made to St. Ursula’s Food Pantry and Outreach, P.O. Box 18, Pursglove , WV 26546.