Stephen Rowland

Stephen H. Rowland, lovingly known as Roller, 70 years of age and Nina M. Rowland, lovingly known as Nee Nee, 57 years of age, longtime residents of rural Muscoda passed away together Friday, November 9, 2012 north of Richland Center due to a tragic automobile accident.
Stephen was born October 20, 1942 to Neal and Christine (Metropolis) Rowland in Chicago, Illinois. He was the oldest of three children. He graduated from William A. Wirt High School and continued his education at Indiana University. Having grown up among family and friends with a passion for learning he continued his search for knowledge even until his passing being currently enrolled in classes at UW-Richland. Stephen was a successful Steam Fitter, recently retired so he could enjoy his favorite pass times of cycling, skiing, reading, listening to music and spending time with his friends and family. He had a special affection for the southwest. Stephen was known for his quick and dry wit and could always bring a smile to your face. He had an infectious laugh which will linger in all of us. Stephen will be greatly missed and his friends and family will continue to share stories to keep his memory alive.
Stephen and Nina are survived by his three children; Jason Rowland (Jacqueline) of Indianapolis, IN, Ericka (Russell) Hillery (Jason) of Ridgeway, WI, Robert Rowland-Russell (Jennifer) of Madison, WI and his three grandchildren; Jacob and Jianna Rowland and Marlee Hillery.
Stephen is survived by his sisters Katherine (Rowland) Thrower (John) and Stacy (Rowland) Schwarz both of Gila, NM and was preceded in death by his grandparents and parents.
Nina was born October 12, 1955 to Daniel and Helarn (Otto) Mauro in New Brunswik, New Jersery. She was the youngest of six children. She graduated from Broad Ripple High School. Nina was a successful RN and longtime caregiver for Herman B. Wells, retired President of Indiana University and countless others over the years. Bringing joy and healing to others was her passion. Nina was also employed by Lands' End for several years. Nina was a fabulous cook and enjoyed shopping, reading and listening to music. Nina loved all things nature, plants and animals were another passion. She loved her sheep and beagles Buddy and Missy. Nina always had a full schedule of house and pet sitting and was very committed to the local Humane Society. Nina's grandchildren, nieces and nephews were the light of her life. Seeing photos of them and their little ones would put a twinkle in her eye and a smile on her face. Her kindness and sweet cards and letters were always cherished. Even though she was the youngest, she was the one that worked hard to keep a large family of thirty-some connected. Only through Nina was the family able to keep in touch with Iowa Cousins. Nina will be greatly missed by those who knew her. Her family thanks all who have given support through this tragic time.

Nina is survived by her sisters, Gloria Mauro, Gina Gavette, Maria Featherston, and her brother Michael Mauro (Vicki). Her nieces and nephews, Aliina VanKersen (Eric), Brian Gavette (Cathy), Chris (Paige) Gavette, Mick Gavette and Anna Gavette, Andria Pincheira (Mauricio), Brandon Mauro (Alta), Matt Featherston, and April Mills (AJ) and preceded in death by her grandparents, parents and sister Michelle Ann Mauro.

Stephen and Nina were united in marriage in 1997 at the Beck Chapel - University of Indiana in Bloomington, IN, in front of their loved ones and celebrated their 15th wedding anniversary on October 5, 2012. They spent every day of those 15 years together enjoying every moment life had to offer them.

Stephen and Nina left behind their beloved beagles Buddy and Missy who have found love in a new home with dear friends of the family.

Visitation for Roller and Nina will be held at Cress Funeral & Cremation Service located at 3610 Speedway Road, Madison, WI on Saturday, November 17, 2012 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. (608) 238-3434. A memorial fund will be established for the family or donations can be made to Ocooch Mountain Humane Society (Spay & Neuter Clinics Project) P.O. Box 229 Richland Center, WI 53581.

Stephen and Nina lived whole heartedly and followed one simple life rule; Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.