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Rowan Anthony William Rowan
September 15th 2008 – September 29th 2024
Rowan passed away suddenly with family by his side at the Kemptville District Hospital on September 29th, 2024. Rowan is the beloved son of Kate Penney and Rob Dean and cherished brother of Brianna Dean. Rowan is adored by his loving Grandmothers Tessa, Sandra and Krista as well as his Grandfathers Brian and Kenn. Rowan is loved by Great Uncle David and Aunt Karin, Great Aunt Margo, Uncle Ryan and cousins Sam, Evan and cousins Tannis and Damien. He is also remembered with love by Auntie Margaret, second cousins Amanda, Belinda, Claire and Emma as well as many close family friends including Nick and Chris, Gord and Annette, as well as Lynne from PEI. Rowan is also a dear grandson and nephew to the deceased Grandpa Ron and Uncle Matthew.
Rowan had many passions and always focused all his energy into them. Athletic and determined from a young age, Rowan excelled at hockey, skiing and running. Rowan enjoyed fishing and swimming and as he grew older Rowan learned to drive the aluminum boat at the family cottage on Hall’s Lake in the Haliburton Highlands. He could be found most evenings travelling around the lake and spending time in local fishing spots. Rowan also often trained on the hilly terrain of the Highlands, taking advantage of opportunities to increase his endurance. His favourite run was the 11km loop around the lake, with steep inclines on Braeloch road to challenge him.
Rowan spent many Christmas holidays visiting with grandparents in Florida. A favourite adventure was visiting the Circle B Bar Reserve. On many walks along the canal pathways, huge alligators could be found sunbathing, sometimes even blocking the trails. On more than one occasion Rowan stated he could just jump the alligator and then carry on with the walk. There were also many visits to Bok Tower, where annual family photos were taken on or beside a large life size bronze alligator statue. Of course, in true Rowan fashion, he also practiced tennis and pickle ball skills on the local courts, usually playing two to one and making everyone run around the court with his spin and drop shots.
This summer Rowan went on a family trip to PEI with Kate, Rob, Brianna and Grandma Tessa. Initially thinking this holiday would only include “potatoes and red dirt”, Rowan was a reluctant traveler. When he landed at Grandma Tessa’s good friend Lynne’s home, Rowan began to see how much fun he could have. A swimming pool, pickle ball court and trail runs filled his days. Ending his week was the Georgetown Clean Tech Park 5km community race, on July 21st. Rowan ran hard that bright early morning, wearing his traditional red Lockheed Martin shirt and blue training shorts. He won the race and set the course record.
While at home after school and in the evenings, Rowan was most often found outside, playing basketball or road hockey with the neighbouring kids. Some children who joined in were much younger than Rowan. Rowan showed endless patience and kindness, helping each child participate in the game, making sure they had turns to play, all the while encouraging everyone and having fun.
Rowan loved engaging and having conversations with everyone. At the indoor or outdoor rink, hanging out with friends around town or travelling to events or competitions, Rowan was always ready for conversation and debate and could always be counted on for a laugh or fun. His quick wit and sense of humour always kept everyone on their toes.
Rowan’s family knows how much NGDHS meant to him, from all his friends, the amazing coaches and teachers and all the people who guided and supported him. The following is a loving tribute from one of the caring and truly amazing team members at the school: Rowan attended NGDHS as a grade 11 student and superb athlete. He was a gifted runner, exceling at Cross Country, Track and Steeplechase. His was easily recognizable with his poufy hair, massive grin and insatiable appetite. Not only did he have fans throughout our school community, but he was known and respected by rival schools and running clubs alike. Rowan attended OFSAA in several sports, impressing people in the sports world with his dedication to be the best. Not only did he compete on the province’s largest scale for running but last year, he participated in OFSAA swimming as well.
Rowan just turned 16 and was every bit the epitome of youthful energy and health. He went to Calgary in the summer of 2024 to compete at the u18 Nationals in Steeplechase. He came in 9th overall and 2nd for his age. In typical Rowan fashion, it was just fuel for him to keep going and keep improving. He dominated Steeplechase last year winning at LGSSAA and EOSSAA. He always wanted to be the best, to be proud of his accomplishments and he was on track to achieving his goals. His high school community was behind him all the way.
The last interception for NG football was thanks to Rowan Dean. Stories about his athletic contributions filled the halls as students, teachers and coaches remembered how skilled he was, how well-liked and what a presence he was among everyone who knew him. He made classes more entertaining with his ability to banter, he befriended many students through sport, and he was always ready for a laugh. The halls are a bit quieter, our hearts are heavy, and we will miss him dearly.
Rowan’s immediate family Kate, Rob and Brianna, are truly grateful for all the love and care that has been received since the moment Rowan was in need and in every moment since. We sincerely appreciate the community’s outpouring of support. The Brockville Track and Field Club wrote an incredible tribute to our darling boy that beautifully describes his strength of character. We are very touched by the Kemptville Physiotherapy Centre who honoured Rowan by awarding their Carrie Smith Get Active Grant to his teammates and running club. We are very grateful for the tribute written by Mayor Nancy Peckford and the Municipal Council. We have been moved beyond words by the incredible spirit, strength and camaraderie of NGDHS xcountry and track and field teams, along with their teachers, coaches and parents. Their coming together to support each other and honour Rowan in so many ways, has made us feel truly blessed and given us peace in knowing how much love and support Rowan has been given. We know he will truly live on in the hearts and memories of those who knew him. The staff at NG have been incredibly supportive, going above and beyond to help our family. Rowan had so many dedicated people in his life, helping him grow as a student athlete as well as a young man with strength of character, kindness, perseverance and passion.
Finally, we would like to thank the incredible team of people who worked so hard to help Rowan that night. The paramedics, firefighters, police and emergency team at the Kemptville District Hospital provided Rowan with exemplary care. Rowan knew he was loved and not alone. We will forever remember their dedication and efforts.
Rowan’s family intends to create a student scholarship in his memory. Kate and Rob ask that donations be sent to the Rowan Dean Memorial Fund, care of the North Grenville District High School. A Celebration of Life will be held at NGDHS on Saturday, October 26th from 1-3 pm. We want to use this time for people who knew Rowan well including teachers, coaches, classmates, teammates, parents and friends to be able to share a story or memory of our much loved son Rowan.
Sunday September 29th 2024
Death notice for the town of: Kemptville, Province: Ontario
death notice Rowan Anthony William Dean Sunday September 29th 2024
obituaries notice Rowan Anthony William Dean Sunday September 29th 2024
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Rowan Anthony William Dean Sunday September 29th 2024 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
