LEWISTON – Gordon Benton Rowe, 65, of Avon, died Friday, May 21, at St. Mary’s Hospital, where he has been a patient for a month after a lengthy illness with muscular dystrophy complications. He was called to heaven to be with the Lord.

He was born Dec. 19, 1938, in Avon, a son of Benton and Mildred (Reed) Rowe, he was educated in Phillips schools and graduated from Phillips High School in 1958. On July 7, 1963, he married Birdena Savage of Avon and together they raised two-fine sons.

He worked as a mechanic and truck driver several years for Milton Stinchfield, Basil Rowe and the Oliver Oil Co. For over 19 years he worked as a mechanic for Knapp Bros., in Kingfield before he had to retire due to ill health.

He was a member of the Phillips United Methodist Church and the Blue Mountain No. 67 Masonic Lodge.

When he was able to enjoy taking his sons, fishing, snowmobiling, car races, movies and spending time at their camp in Salem. He enjoyed life and loved his family dearly.

He is survived by his wife and best friend of 40 years; two sons, Matthew Rowe of Old Orchard Beach, Marcus Rowe and his wife Darlene of Phillips; one granddaughter, Hailee Jane Rowe whom he adored; two brothers, David Reed and his wife Pearl of Strong, Edgar Rowe of Windham; three sisters, Carolyn Nash of Rumford, Leuleen Ryan and her husband Willard of Eustis, Merlyn Moulton of Portland; several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents.