Jack Ellis Rowland

"For those who don't know me, here I am!" — Jack Ellis Rowland

Jack Ellis Rowland was born on July 28, 1945, to Delores Raynie in Sioux City, Iowa. At five months old, his mother married Edward John Rowland, who became his beloved father. Jack passed away quietly surrounded by love on August 18, 2026, in West Jordan, Utah.

Jack grew up primarily in Racine, Wisconsin—a place that gave him plenty of material for his trademark humor. As he often recalled, "I had to walk about 2 miles to my school, and it was very cold and snowy in the Wisconsin winters."

Jack’s musical journey began early, though not without trial. He first attempted the French horn ("That was a mistake," he admitted), before turning his determination toward the violin. When told his fingers were "too short and stubby" for the instrument, Jack set out to prove them wrong—and did just that, earning second chair. At age 12, he joined an all-boys choir, sparking a lifelong passion for singing. He possessed an amazing voice, and among his most cherished musical memories were the times he sang duets with his son, Eric.

The year 1963 was a monumental one for Jack. He joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and was the first person his dad baptized. The baptism came with a bit of a hiccup—it took three attempts to get fully immersed, leading Jack to joke, "I guess I'm so stubborn I had to be extra washed!"

In 1963, Jack joined the United States Navy, proudly serving as a “Seabees”. During his naval service, he met Doreen Dunning. The two were later married and welcomed two children: Jonathan "Eric" Rowland in 1968, and Jenette "Renee" Rowland Rose in 1970. Around 1998, they adopted their grandson, Kristopher Rose. Though Jack and Doreen later divorced, they remained close friends throughout their lives.

In 1973, Jack joined the Air National Guard in Wisconsin, during which time he attended the Milwaukee School of Engineering and earned his associate degree in industrial management. He later relocated to Utah, where he continued his military service with the Utah Air National Guard’s 151st Civil Engineering Squadron. During this time, he also attended the University of Utah, earning a bachelor’s degree in industrial management. Through dedication and leadership, Jack rose to the rank of Senior Master Sergeant before retiring from military service in 2000.

Following his retirement, Jack had the wonderful opportunity to work at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow, Russia, for three years. His time abroad brought incredible adventures, allowing him to travel across many countries alongside Doreen and Kris.

Throughout his life, Jack carried a deep, unwavering testimony of his Savior. He served faithfully in many church callings, but his absolute favorite was Ward Librarian, where he loved nothing more than seeing the little kids pop in to say hello.

While we will miss him dearly, we take comfort in knowing Jack’s testimony has become sight, and we can only imagine the joyful reunion taking place on the other side.

Jack’s family—especially Eric and Julie—would like to express their deepest gratitude to the many friends and neighbors in Smithfield who lovingly served, visited, and cared for Jack over the last few years. Your kindness and community meant the world to him and brought immense comfort to his family. Your generosity will never be forgotten

Jack is survived by his children, Jonathan "Eric" (Julie) Rowland and Jenette "Renee" Rose; his grandson/son, Kristopher Rowland; as well as his grandchildren Ashley (Michael) Caddel, Joshua Rowland, Courtney (Dalton) Rasmussen, Cheyenne Rose, his sister Hollie Ann Zertuchi and Doreen Rowland Hulshoff. He is preceded in death by his parents, brothers Robert Gary & Bruce Earl Rowland.

Funeral Services will be on August 29, 2026, at 11 A.M. at Allen-Hall Mortuary 34 East Center Street, Logan, Utah. A viewing will be held prior to the funeral from 9:30 A.M. to 10:45 A.M. Interment will be at the Wellsville City Cemetery.

Memories and condolences may be shared and expressed at www.allenmortuaries.com.