1964 – 2026
It is with profound sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Rowan Joseph Garnett on March 21/2026 at the Saint John Regional Hospital. He was the son of the late Eugene and Jacqueline Garnett
Born in Saint John he began his career with Centennial Pontiac Buick GMC as a night watchman. Under the guidance of Bob and Steven Downey he grew to become one of their top salesmen. It was in this role that he met Laurie Melanson of Melanson’s Waste Management, which started his long career in the industrial world. He worked on the flusher trucks, but the camera division was his favorite where he had his trusty sidekick Jimmy “BUCK” Naves with him for years. After working for Melanson’s for 8 years came the opportunity to transfer to another city, in 1997 he transitioned his family to Moncton. From Melanson’s the company was sold to Atlantic Industrial Cleaners. Then the opportunity came to start a whole new adventure with Industrial Hydro Vac. This lasted until July 2020 when the company was sold and became Mac Vac Environment which he remained a valued employee until his passing.
Over the years he dedicated his life to his children. Teaching and coaching them in life and in numerous sports which later continued with his Granddaughters. Over the years he was active in hockey, softball and his favorite sport, golfing. Lakeside golf course was his home away from home that he enjoyed with his many valued friends which included his best friend Brian Donaghy. He and Brian spent many days and nights, sometimes just sitting having coffee.
His life would never have been complete without his wife of nearly 41 years Nancy (n. Roberts). He lived for her and will be immensely missed every day by her. Spending years travelling the continent and exploring new things together they were side by side.
He will be unbelievably missed by his Daughter Amanda Winterburn, Son-in-law DJ, Son Joseph, daughter-in-law Kristen, sister Laurie Garnett(Andrea McLeod) and his favorite people in the world his Granddaughters Abiageal, Parker, Harper and Brooke, as well as his faithful companion Max.
Also left to grieve are Linda Naves, Paul and Charlotte Roberts, Michael Roberts, Timothy Roberts and Barbra Roblin (Emma, Isobel and Faith), Michelle and Steven Carhart (Isaac and Gracie), Matthew Naves (Vanessa, Meghan and Brandon), Mark Roberts (Michelle and Justin) and John Roberts (Stacey). As well as many colleagues and friends.
He was predeceased by his parents, sister Elizabeth Garnett, brother Frankie Garnett, father and mother-in-law Armand and Winifred Roberts, brother in-law Jim Naves, and nephew Dustin Roberts.
The family would like to thank the hospital staff at both Moncton Hospital and the Saint John Regional Hospital. In Lieu of flowers donations can be made to Coronary Care unit Saint John Regional Hospital or the Moncton SPCA.
Visitation will be held at Cobb’s Funeral Home on Monday March 30, 2026 from 6-8pm at Cobb’s Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 330 Whitepine Rd. Riverview (506-869-2007) with the celebration of life on Tuesday March 31, 2026 at 1pm at Cobb’s Funeral Home. The family has requested that you attend the service in a golf shirt or casual dress.
To view the funeral service live stream or later please click here
