Obituary of Rowena Viola Thorpe

THORPE, Rowena – Rowena passed away at Bluewater Health, Palliative Care, on Thursday, April 10, 2025 at the age of 102. Beloved wife of the late John Thorpe for 64 years.  Loved mother of Mary Jane Wodkowski (late Donald), the late Mike Thorpe (late Toni), Adele Thrasher (John), and Joan Nienhuis (Peter).  Proud grandma of 16 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren, all of whom were included in her nightly prayers.  Predeceased by parents Leonard and Ellen Payne and sisters Marion Rennie (Jack) and Lenora Parent (Robert).

From Sarnia to Sanibel Island, her warmth and generosity touched many.  While raising their young family in a small 2 bedroom house on Felix Street, Rowena and John opened their door to other members of their family needing a place to live.  Their summer cottage also became the collective family home to generations of the Thorpe family.  Rowena was a fixture on the front porch, rocking in her rocking chair and sipping on cups of tea. Each Christmas, she made a stocking for everyone in the family, and her multi-coloured knitted blankets are precious treasures to her family. They make any room feel like home - just as she did.

Many will remember Rowena for her quiet, peaceful pursuits: long walks, crossword puzzles, shelling on Sanibel Island, and tending to the garden in her backyard. But she was equally fond of a gruesome horror film, and perhaps no one on Earth has read and enjoyed more murder mysteries. Her love of mysteries was matched only by her love of sweets, and those who spent time at the cottage will fondly recall the constant smorgasbord of candy on display above the fireplace.

Rowena always brought a touch of class with her pearls, her hat, her smile, her strength, and her grace. Her last words were “thank you” and “wonderful,” a fitting summary of 102 incredible years which still, to her family and all those who loved her, doesn’t seem like long enough.

Cremation has taken place, and a family burial will be held in the summer at Riverview Cemetery, Sombra. Arrangements entrusted to The McKenzie & Blundy Funeral Home & Cremation Centre, 519-344-3131. Messages of condolence & memories may be left at www.mckenzieblundy.com