John donates hand-crafted timber gifts despite cancer battle

At age 79, and despite a diagnosis of inoperable cancer just 12 months ago, Woombye’s John Rowe has once again demonstrated his kindness and sense of community with the donation of handcrafted furniture to those in need.

“John always wanted to be a carpenter but he never had the opportunity to do woodwork when he was young,” said his wife, Louise.

“He is completely self taught and he has learned how to make furniture, toys and useful things out of hardwood. Although it is a huge amount of work, John loves working with hardwood because it lasts a lifetime and can be passed down through generations.”

This year the Woombye kindergarten was the grateful recipient of hardwood stools and a couple of bench seats, as well as a local family in need.

“John has had so many challenges to overcome and despite his own serious illness, he just gets up every day and looks for ways to help and give to others,” said Louise.

“He is a man in a million and I am so proud of what he is able to do. I just want people to know who he is.”

Gary De Paoli of Century 21 Living Local alerted the Gazette to Mr Rowe’s generous initiative. Mr Rowe, a former cane farmer, said he was happy to help out the community.

Pictured: John Rowe with one of his hand crafted benches.