We are deeply saddened by the passing of Lawrence William Rowles of Pincher Creek, Alta., who passed away at the Pincher Creek Health Centre on Aug. 27, 2023, at the age of 81, following a courageous 24-year battle with cancer.

Lawrence is survived by his daughters: Lorri (Doug) Luco of Pincher Creek, Karen Rowles (Steve Rutledge) of Cowley and Tracy (Dave) Kirichuk of Valleyview; stepdaughter: Shannon (Barry) Clay of Claresholm; stepson: Chris (Natalie) Krenn of Spruce Grove; grandsons: Kayne, Jesson, Brock and Jace; granddaughters: Courtney, Breanne, Chyna, Alanna and Codie; siblings: Len (Marlene) Rowles, Lamont (Marilyn) Rowles and Leatrice (Tim) Steeves of Calgary; and nieces: Michelle Rowles, Aimee (Craig) Johnston and Ashley (Shaun) Unwin of Calgary.

Lawrence was predeceased by his loving wife and soul mate, Beverley Rowles (née Tucker), on May 13, 2014.

Lawrence was raised on a farm in Okotoks, Alta., where the value of hard work, commitment and discipline were deeply ingrained and became the virtues that guided him over his lifetime. Upon leaving his Okotoks family farm as a young man, Lawrence worked as a police officer for the City of Calgary, providing five years of service and protection. This was followed by dedicating the next 22 years of his life to Texas Gulf in Okotoks and Shell Canada at Waterton and Simonette, retiring in 1992.

Post-retirement “work” spanned an additional 10 years, where Lawrence found himself working as a school bus driver, a farm/ranch hand for numerous family operations in Pincher Creek, and an invaluable employee with Totem Building Supplies. Although busy “working” into his late 60s, Lawrence found time to engage in his passion — woodworking. Lawrence’s imaginative mind, attention to detail, and unbridled energy for creating resulted in wood art masterpieces.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the many health-care professionals who provided unwavering support and care during Lawrence’s courageous cancer battle. During the last six weeks of Lawrence’s health battle, he was treated with the utmost respect and dignity, and we were humbled and overwhelmed with the kindness and exemplary displays of compassion. 

At Lawrence’s request, no funeral service will be held. A private family celebration will be held at a later date in the summer.

Memorial donations in Lawrence’s remembrance may be made to the Windy Slopes Health Foundation in Pincher Creek (windyslopes.ca or 403-627-1216).

Arrangements entrusted to Snodgrass Funeral Homes.