Rowland Packard

Rowland Packard, January 29, 1940-December 25, 2018.

Born in Toronto, Canada to Alfred and Shirley Packard, Rowland spent much of his childhood helping on the farm, traveling with his mother, and helping with the operations of a boys’ home.  He made a name for himself on his high school’s track and field team, setting a record in the 440-yard dash (now known as the 400 meter).  At 27, he married Caroline Noyes, and they had two children-Joyce and Alfred.

Soon after a 1967 summer job fishing in Alaska, Rowland began his first career as an Aerospace Engineer working for North American Aviation, Lockheed Martin, and McDonnell Douglas/Boeing. He started his second career as a driver in the late 1980's working for Jed’s Limousine, Stevens Transport, Celadon, and Trucks For You. During his employment with Celadon, he was honored for being 6 years accident-free; and his file at Jed’s Limousine is overflowing with letters of appreciation for his friendly professionalism.

Rowland was passionate about many interests including fishing, aircraft, cars, photography, cooking, Alaska, and conversation. In 2006, his 1967 Dodge Charger placed 3rd in the Daily Driver class at the Monster MOPAR car show. With a light-hearted and optimistic attitude, he made friends everywhere he went.  He had a wicked sense of humor, always enjoyed a good pun, and was a fan (and frequent user) of “that’s what she said” jokes.

Rowland died on Christmas under hospice care in his apartment with his daughter, son-in-law, and 2 cats. He is survived by his brother, Ron Packard; his daughter and son-in-law, Joyce and Doug Henderson; his son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren, Alfred and Tracie Packard, Haylo Pierciey, and Haven Packard; and his cats Lucius and Noel.