Craig A. Rowland, of East Providence, Dies at 71
Saturday, November 27, 2021
Craig A. Rowland, 71, of East Providence, RI, born in Cranston, RI, Craig was the son of the late Constance S. Rowland and grandson of the late Elsa H. (Berg, Chace, Karnes, Champlin, Turgeon) Hammond - his very own “Auntie Mame.” He was also a son of the late Philip T. Rowland and stepson of the late Lori Rowland.
Craig had many natural talents - he was an excellent pianist and clarinetist spending summers as a young man at New England Music Camp in Sydney, ME. He was an excellent writer and storyteller initially majoring in journalism. As a young man, he enjoyed ballroom dancing competing in local competitions with his mother, Connie.
Craig worked alongside his grandmother and best friend, Elsa, at Champlin’s Fish Market in Galilee, RI, at the age of 14 taking and delivering orders; he worked beside her in her real estate business, Elsa’s Real Estate, in Galilee; and at her antique shop, Ye Olde Rose Medallion in Wickford, RI. He learned a lot about business and working with the public which would serve him well in his future endeavors.
Craig was a hairstylist by trade, a caregiver by heart, and a resource of knowledge to everyone he loved. Craig lived in New London, CT, during his career. He worked for Shear Artistry in Groton, CT, for many years. He also worked at That Look in East Lyme, CT, and The Mane Event in Waterford, CT. He previously owned and operated The Stylemakers salon in Groton, CT.
Craig loved each and every one of his clients. He enjoyed taking care of the hair and beauty needs of his clients and their families - getting to know them and watching their children grow up. He became a friend and confidante to all his clients. He had an outstanding and unusual talent for hair color. His formulas and guidance were sought after by his colleagues and stylists from many other salons. His clients were loyal to him and would wait weeks past when their hair care was due in order to book with him.
Craig’s happiest years were those he spent in New London, Waterford, and Groton, CT.
Upon retirement, Craig moved back to Rhode Island. During his retirement years, his natural ability as a caregiver and health advocate blossomed - helping many friends and acquaintances find care and guidance when not much was known about HIV/AIDS or its treatment. His compassion, knowledge, and advocacy knew no bounds.
Craig was partner of and caregiver to the late Philip M. Quirini; friend and caregiver to the late Edward E. Pelletier who was like a beloved uncle to Craig and his small family; and life-long friend/brother to the late Edward J. Mahoney.
Craig is survived by his sister, Sheila Rowland (Richard Cabral), who he always said was brought to him by the angels; his cousin and caregiver, Wendy Chace, R.N. whose nursing knowledge and care gave him a better quality of life; a son, Damon Chace of whom he is so very proud; a cousin, Linda Bachelder whose life-long love and friendship were a source of joy; his life-long friend, Tom O’Rourke, who was like a brother to him; a friend, Mark Randall who brought him much comfort; and many friends he kept in touch with through Facebook who gave him support, comfort, and compassion during his illness for which he was forever grateful. In addition, Craig leaves two beloved fur babies, Abbey and GeeGee, to whom he was considered “Poppa.”
Honoring Craig’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. Interment will be private.
