Robert Morgan Rowlands

Robert (Bob) Rowlands, 89, passed away peacefully on November 27th at Country Meadows, Mechanicsburg. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 31 years, Joan Rowlands, with whom he shared a life filled with love, adventure, and family.

Bob was born in 1936. He was the son of David and Anna Rowlands. He is survived by Rob and Tammy Soop of New Cumberland and Randy and Kathy Soop of Ellicott City, MD. Bob also leaves behind seven grandchildren Lauren Dettorre, Kaitlin Comeau, Conor Soop, Shannon Soop, Devin Soop, Ryan Soop and Christian Soop and two great-grandchildren: Quinn and Josie Dettorre.

Bob attended University of Pennsylvania Law School and practiced law. Bob later embraced a career in education where he taught law classes at Penn State and Harrisburg Area Community college. A lifelong reader, Bob built an extensive personal library and took great pride in his book collection. In retirement, he spent his years traveling throughout the world, a passion he especially enjoyed sharing with Joan. Bob also enjoyed theater and enjoyed attending shows at the Hershey Theater with his granddaughter Lauren. Bob was a member of Saint Stephens Episcopal Church in Harrisburg. Bob faithfully attended his grandchildren’s sporting activities and other events they participated in.

One of his proudest accomplishments was hiking the Appalachian Trail. Bob was also a certified Master Gardener. He enjoyed watching sports and looked forward to attending yearly games at his Alma Mater.

Bob lived a full life marked by travel, friendship, family, and a deep appreciation for history. He will be remembered for his intelligence, perseverance, and lifelong love for travel, books and his family. He will be deeply missed.

The family will be having a private celebration of life for Bob. The family is very grateful to Bob’s friends and former neighbors who were so supportive of Bob. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Cumberland Valley Library System in Bob’s honor at https://cumberlandcountylibraries.org.