George E. Rowland

George Rowland, 97, of Port Byron, Illinois, passed away Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at home.

According to his wishes, cremation will take place at Trimble Crematory, Moline, Illinois, under the direction of Cremation Society of the Quad Cities. Memorials may be made to the family.

George Ernest Leonard Rowland was born on April 12, 1929, in Dorking, England, to Arthur and Hilda Rowland. He grew up during the World War II period. He married the love of his life, Peggy New, on February 14, 1976. She preceded him in death on October 9, 2025.

Early in life, George enlisted with the Royal Navy and was stationed in Lee on Solent, Culdrose in Cornwall, before finishing up in Malta. George immigrated to the United States and eventually worked as an engineer with KartridgPak traveling to India, China, Japan, and the United Kingdom over the course of his career. He also had a commercial pilot’s license and was a Major in the Civil Air Patrol.

George and Peggy were very active with the Port Byron Library, and also played Jack and Mrs. Frost every Christmas until they were no longer able due to health. George can be remembered for the model railway he built of an English village, as well as his English pub in his basement, his love for the outdoors and animals.

George is survived by his daughter, Randi; brothers, Les (Kim), Dave (Yvonne), and Ivor (Gina). In addition to his wife, George was preceded in death by a son, Paul; siblings, Jim, Bryan, and Dawn.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to Heartland Hospice for the wonderful care George received, along with Sheryl Griffith for assisting Randi with his care during the last year of his life. He considered Sheryl to be a part of his family.

Condolences may be shared at CremationQC.com.