William Cardyn Rowe, 96, of Fairfield, beloved husband of Sally Stevens Baird Rowe, died peacefully January 2, at home. Born in Bridgeport, the son of the late Mabel and Frederick Rowe, he had been a lifelong area resident.

In addition to his loving wife, Sally, of 68 years; his five beloved children, David Jennings Rowe of Newtown and Allison Rowe, Wendy Cardyn Rowe of Trumbull, Cynthia Rowe Placko and her husband Ken of Fairfield, William Frederick Rowe and Elizabeth Mann of Easton, and Edward and Emily Edgar of Bethlehem; two grandsons, Kyle Paul Placko and his wife Kristen, and Keith Cardyn Placko and Jennifer Chamberlain; and a great-granddaughter survive him.

Mr Rowe started college at the University of Georgia, then proudly served in the United States Navy during World War II as a pharmacist's mate first class assigned to the 2nd Marine Division as a medical corpsman. He was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation for outstanding performance in battle during the seizure and occupation of Tarawa and the Gilbert Islands from May 20 to 24, 1943.

Following the war, Mr Rowe graduated from the University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy and owned and operated the Tunxis Hill Pharmacy for many years. He also worked at other local pharmacies throughout his career. He was a member of the American Legion Post 143 in Fairfield.

Mr Rowe was a loving, devoted, and amazing husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who enjoyed time spent with his family and their animals.

Funeral services will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 38 Richards Avenue, Norwalk CT 06854; American Legion Post 143, 1443 Stratfield Road CT 06825; or a Veterans organization of one's choosing.

To offer an online condolence, visit spearfuneralhome.com.