Ardith “Ardy” Ann Amdahl Rowland passed away February 20, 2026 at home, after a long and courageous journey, with her devoted husband faithfully by her side. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and unwavering devotion to those she loved most.

Ardy was born on October 13, 1937, in Jackson, Minnesota, to Vera Grace and Emmet G. Amdahl. She was raised in Estherville, Iowa, where she graduated from Estherville High School in 1955. During her high school years, she was active in numerous clubs and activities and was honored as a member of the National Honor Society. In the summers, during her final High School year and her early college days, she worked as a lifeguard at the city park swimming pool located directly across from her family home, reflecting her vibrant and energetic spirit.

She attended the University of Iowa, graduating in 1960 with a Bachelor of Science degree in dental hygiene from the University of Iowa School of Dentistry. While at the university, Ardy was active both academically and socially and was crowned Queen of Hearts at the Hillcrest Valentine’s celebration in 1958, representing her sorority, Alpha Delta Pi.

Ardy began her professional career as a dental hygienist in Colorado Springs. As part of Colorado’s licensing process she was required to demonstrate the practical side of the profession by cleaning the teeth of volunteer patients who were inmates of the Colorado State Prison located at Canon City, Colorado. She continued her professional hygienist career after moving to Denver and then on to Boulder, Colorado where she was recognized by the dentists with whom she worked for her professionalism, compassion, and dedication.

It was in Denver that Ardy met the love of her life, John Parker Rowland. They were married on June 4, 1964, at a Presbyterian church in Denver, beginning a lifelong partnership built on love, commitment, and family. They honeymooned in Estes Park, Colorado, a special place that marked the beginning of their life together. In August 1966, they moved to Boulder, Colorado, where Ardy continued working until April 1969, when she chose to dedicate herself fully to raising her family following the birth of their daughter, Ann Margarette.

She embraced motherhood wholeheartedly, creating a loving and nurturing home. She never missed her children’s games or guitar lessons and drove them to practices daily, always supporting the activities they chose and encouraging them every step of the way. Ardy and John’s journey took them, by virtue of John’s employment, to Washington, D.C., then to El Paso and Midland, Texas, before settling in the San Francisco Bay Area on December 31, 1969, where they made their home for the remainder of their lives. Their son, John Amdahl Rowland, was born on October 6, 1972, completing their family.

Ardy was deeply involved in her community, particularly during the family’s years in Dublin and San Ramon. She was active in the PTA and was one of the founding members of an Episcopal Church mission in San Ramon, helping to build a church community grounded in faith and connection. She had a lifelong love of bridge and was an accomplished player, forming many close and lasting friendships through the game.

In 1994, Ardy experienced a life-altering medical event that led to many years of significant health challenges. Through it all, she remained surrounded by love. Her devoted husband, John Parker Rowland, cared for her with extraordinary dedication for more than three decades—a true testament to their deep and enduring love. His unwavering care and compassion reflected the life they built together.

Ardy was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Vera Grace and Emmet G. Amdahl, and her brother, Garvin Amdahl. She is survived by her husband, John Parker Rowland; her daughter, Ann Margarette Rowland Lovell (Jeremy); her son, John Amdahl Rowland (Andrea); her beloved grandchildren - Jered Lovell and Jacob Lovell; Zakk Rowland and Averi Rowland.

Ardy will be remembered for her beauty, her grace, and the love she gave so freely. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her family, and she will be deeply missed.

A memorial service will be held at St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church, 1550 Diablo Valley Road, Danville, Ca. at 1:00pm on May 7th. The reception will be held at the church facility following the service. Donations, in lieu of flowers, can be made to Shepards Gate, 1660 Portola Ave., Livermore, Ca. 94550.