John R. Rowland 1947-2022

He will be greatly missed for his humor, wit and generosity. John held his many friendships in high regard, keeping in touch with those he cared about, whether near or far.

John had a voracious appetite for knowledge. He would read multiple books at a time, all the while retaining an encyclopedic memory of history and culture.

One of his biggest passions was athletics. His Kiski school wrestling coach, Jacob Zeigler, instilled a sense of self-discipline that he carried with him throughout the rest of his life. John was an accomplished wrestler and rugby player, captaining in both sports at Kiski and Williams College.

After graduation, John set out on a path of his own, moving to Portland, Ore., where he started a career in broadcast management and met his wife, Margret van der Valk. After marrying, they moved to Spokane in 1980, where they started their family and he spent over 20 years at KREM-TV.

The Spokane Club played a central role in his life. While exercising there near daily, he also found time to be on the board and headed up numerous committees.

John enjoyed coaching both of his children’s soccer teams during their grade school years.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Robert D. Rowland and Helen Rowland; and by his sister and brother in-law, Betsy and Jerry Goodwin.

He is survived by his wife, Margret; and their children, Robert D. Rowland II and Marissa Rowland.

Memorial contributions may be made to Lilac Services for the Blind, 1212 N. Howard St., Spokane, WA 99201.

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