Justin Rowe was an exceptional psychologist who has worked in the community of Wynnum for the last decade.
So many people pay lip service to the idea of personal growth, but Rowe's contributions to the community were significant in a multitude of 'small' ways that personal growth relies on - supporting people to become the best they could be, overcome anxiety, deal with depression, and turn relationship issues into opportunities for learning and change that both partners were able to value.
Parents of children Rowe counselled would return years later to thank him for the changes he initiated. Couples he counselled would do the same thing. The professionals he worked with - including his students - became friends. Rowe's warmth and essential humanness appeared to endear him to everyone.
Rowe worked as a psychologist at Redland hospital, Wynnum hospital, Princess Alexandra, Boystown Kids' help Line, previously at St Vincent's in Melbourne, as well as running his own private practice.
He was diagnosed with a very aggressive brain tumour 12 months ago, which targeted his speech and ability to communicate - a cruel irony for someone who placed so much care, attention, and love on those skills. He actively fought his condition, and it was important to him that his friends and family were aware of this.
He passed away on July 25 held by his loved ones at the Mater Private hospital.
Rowe is survived by his wife Sharon, and daughters Tyler, Paige, and Lara.
His funeral and memorial service will be at the Hemmant Chapel and Crematorium on Friday, August 1, at 10am.
