Walter Dean Rowell of Blackwell, Oklahoma, died Monday morning, September 28, 2009, in the Blackwell Regional Hospital in Blackwell at the age of 73 years.

Walter Dean Rowell was born on April 11, 1936, in DeQueen, Arkansas, to Jesse and Sarah Rowell. He grew up and attended school in the DeQueen area. Following his education he worked on the family farm in Arkansas and later began driving a truck across country. He married Linda Sue Reed on January 25, 1963, in Arkansas. In 1975 he moved to Blackwell and continued driving a truck until his retirement in 1989. His wife preceded him in death on November 16, 1990, and he continued to make Blackwell his home. He enjoyed outdoor activities including hunting and fishing. He also enjoyed being with family and friends.

He is survived by his daughter, Georgia Hicks of Blackwell, Oklahoma; his son, Jimmy Rowell of Ponca City, Oklahoma; a brother, Roy Rowell of Locksburg, Arkansas; and nine grandchildren.

He was also preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Lilly Marie Suggs; and two grandchildren, Cody Ryan Rowell and Christopher Kyle Rowell.

Graveside services are scheduled for 2:00 p.m., Thursday, October 1st in the Mt. Olive Cemetery in Nardin, Oklahoma, with the Rev. Ken Newport of Second Baptist Church in Ponca City officiating. Burial will follow in the Mt. Olive Cemetery.