College mourns passing of Larry Rowe ’68, longtime technical specialist in physics and astronomy

It is with sadness that the College shares the news of the death of Laurence (Larry) Rowe ’68 (Physics), who served as a technical specialist in the Department of Physics and Astronomy for more than five decades, on April 15. He was 73.

Larry earned a BA in physics from SUNY New Paltz in May 1968. By August he was employed by the department as a Technical Specialist. His career at New Paltz spanned 50 years and several buildings.

He was tireless in performing his duties and more. A former chair described his greatest skill as the ability “to put life back into equipment that no longer functions.” He would do this for anyone and at any time. He was incredibly generous with his time and would go to great lengths to help anyone from any department on any project.

Larry could often be spotted at open houses and other major events moving a cart loaded with scientific marvels to amaze and amuse prospective students and their families. I can still see the twinkle in his eye as he demonstrated his equipment in the Athletics & Wellness Center.

He was a big-hearted man who loved his work and was always willing to help another in need, who will always be remembered for his love of jokes. At a 2017 retirement celebration in Rowe’s honor, Larry’s longtime friend and colleague, Donald Hodder, said, “Of course everybody’s going to remember the corny jokes, which we called ‘Larry-isms.’ But the more important thing is that Larry was always willing to answer somebody’s questions. People would come not only from the sciences but from anywhere on campus to ask for help, and Larry was there for them.”

Larry Rowe was born in Manhattan on March 17, 1947. He is survived by his two sons, Andrew and Kenneth, and two sisters, Mary Ellen and Margaret Theresa. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, services will commence on a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the American Cancer Society.

Those who wish to read Larry’s full obituary or express condolences online may do so using this link.

Donald P. Christian
President