Lowell D. Rohs saved Henry E. Jackson from drowning, Burlington, Iowa, May 1, 1960. Henry, 11, fell from a moored barge into the Mississippi, which was above flood stage, and was carried downstream in deep water 150 feet from the bank. Rohs, 30, industrial engineer, and several other men were attracted to the bank, where they found a boat. Propelling the craft by means of canoe paddles, Rohs and another man started toward Henry, but the crosscurrent below the barge prevented them from reaching him. Rohs then undressed to his underwear, dived into the cold water, and swam 65 feet to Henry, who was floundering feebly. Henry grasped Rohs, who broke his hold and calmed him. He then secured a chin hold and with difficulty towed Henry 100 feet toward the bank. By then fatigued and beginning to feel numb, Rohs asked Henry if he could swim some by himself. Henry did so, with Rohs following closely and from time to time thrusting him toward the bank. At a boat ramp Rohs secured footing and thrust Henry ahead of him to others who removed Henry and aided Rohs up the ramp. Henry and Rohs were near exhaustion but recovered.
45309-4449Obituary
Lowell Dean Rohs died on April 24, 2018, surrounded by his loving wife, children, and grandchildren. Rohs was born to Jacob and Selma Rohs in Fargo, N.D., on Sept. 11, 1930.
Rohs and Ruth, his wife of 64 years, resided in North Dakota and Iowa before moving to Arizona in 1961. He retired from Honeywell, as vice president of human resources and then enjoyed many retirement years with beloved family and friends.
Rohs’s greatest love was the Gospel Story, and he committed himself to serving the Lord. He sincerely loved God’s servants and people, and he had great faith in the promises of God. Rohs had great joy helping and encouraging others when he saw an opportunity, and leaves behind numerous friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Howard and Robert. Rohs was survived by his wife and children, Steven (Wendy), Kimberly (Lester), Tamara (Charles), Todd, and Lance. He also was survived by 10 grandchildren and 14 grandchildren.
(Edited from an obituary published at dignitymemorial.com.)