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In Memory of Ron Rowlett

by Lt. Steve Noris, California Medical Facility

On Feb. 5, 2006, the waters of Anini Beach on the island of Kauai, had strong currents and extremely high surf, according to the Honolulu Star Bulletin. Suddenly, the cry of a woman took two men from the beach into the surf. Without hesitation or fear for their own lives, these brave souls had only one mission: get to the woman crying for help and save her. But their valiant efforts would be lost in the surf that took their lives instead.

The men were identified as Glenn Manning of Wichita, Kansas, and our own Ronald Rowlett, of Vacaville. They were trying to save Manning's wife, who was on an inflatable floatation device that was caught in the rip currents and being dragged out to sea. When Manning and Rowlett responded to the woman's cries for help, both of them were swept into the reefs. The waves were estimated to have 20- to 30-foot swells. One of the men was spotted climbing on a shallow reef, but a set of waves came in and he was not seen again until lifeguards pulled him, unconscious, from the water. The other man was later found unconscious against the reefs in another location.

Lifeguards responding via jet-ski had to sneak in between the large sets of waves, first to pull the woman from the water and then to retrieve the two men. During the ordeal, Manning's wife apparently stayed atop the floatation device and was swept into the channel and away from harm. According to county officials, drowning was confirmed as the cause of death for both men.

The walls in the California Medical Facility filled with shock, pain, and sadness when information was released about the loss of Correctional Lt. Ron Rowlett. Tears fell from so many who had learned to respect and appreciate Ron and the pride, professionalism, and partnership he gave to CMF.

Adding to his strong commitment as a peace officer was Ron's desire to be a volunteer firefighter. So, from 1982 through 1997, Ron also worked as a firefighter, devoting his skills as a part-time employee, handling situations at CMF, CSP-Solano, and Solano County. Many of the extra hours given after the shift ended, or donated by him because he needed to finish the job, were special hours given freely due to Ron's principles and dedication to the profession.

But Ron was much more than an outstanding employee to CMF. Ron was proud of being a husband, father, friend, neighbor, and a person of respect. Ron and Victoria were married for 37 years, raising two sons, Ronald and Matt, and one daughter, Linda. This family of fi ve shared many of life's adventures in harmony based on their love for one another. Swimming was a natural for the family that had a backyard pool. Traveling in and out of California was part of the vacation plans each year, and riding his motorcycle was a very enjoyable part of Ron's life. Not long ago, both sons purchased motorcycles and spent time with Dad riding the back roads. Ron took pride in raising his family and regained some of his youth while playing with his beloved grandchildren.

Within the sorrow of his death, his family -- and his CMF family -- will always remember Ron as a hero who gave the ultimate sacrifice in rendering assistance to another. Youngest son, Matt, said, "My dad taught me through his actions in life. Every day he would be responsible, affectionate, supportive, never quit and always wear a smile. My dad is deeply missed, but will always be fresh in our hearts to lead us on."

Ron enjoyed sending cards or writing notes to his lovely wife, Victoria, sometimes for special moments, other times just because. It became a special thing between the two of them. Sadly, when Victoria finally made it home from this tragedy in Hawaii, a card was awaiting her on the kitchen table, signed, "I love you. Ron."

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