Rowray, Rickie Norman

Rickie Norman Rowray, 66, of Cedar Rapids, died Monday, Feb. 11, 2013, following a stroke and a short illness at Bishop Drumm in Johnston, Iowa. Visitation will be held from 4:30 to 7 p.m. today at Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home. Service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday at Cedar Memorial Park Chapel of Memories. Burial will be held at Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery. A luncheon will be held at Edgewood Family Fellowship, 621 Edgewood Rd, Cedar Rapids, following the committal.

Rickie was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Richard E. Rowray and to the late Augusta Rowray (Kohl). Rickie graduated from the Iowa School for the Deaf in 1965. He was married to Patricia Ann Rowray (Ewoldt) in Spencer, Iowa, on Nov. 23, 1968. They lived for 44 years in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia; his children, Randall (Jenifer) Rowray of Des Moines and Robina Criteser of Gulf Shores, Ala.; and his grandchildren, Miranda (20), Ben (13), Nate (11) and Brooklyn (9).

Rickie worked for Rockwell Collins for 37 years and retired in December 2002. He was an active member at the Word of God Lutheran Church for the Deaf. He held various positions with the National Fraternal Society for the Deaf. He belonged to the World Deaf Magician Organization and was a magician for 47 years. He was a balloon artist providing smiles and entertainment for the VSA Iowa at the Iowa State Fair for over 24 years. Rickie was a member of the IBEW Local #1362 for 35 years.

One of Rickie's favorite sayings was “Can Do.” He lived his life with an optimistic attitude in everything that he did. He accomplished so much within his family, community, state and his travels. His antics and talents brought joy to children and adults alike. His deafness never limited his imagination and creativity. He strived to do the best in all that he did and brought you a smile with his “Can Do” attitude.

Memorial contributions may be made to the VSA Iowa or to the family.

Please leave an online condolence for the family at under Obituaries.

Published in The Gazette Feb. 13, 2013.