On Nov. 4, 1988, Madison Township Police Officer Dane Rowe was working at an injury vehicle accident scene near Hamilton Road and Harbor Boulevard when he was struck by a vehicle and killed in the line of duty. Thirty years later Rowe’s life and sacrifice were honored as a portion of South Hamilton Road was designated with a sign as “Patrolman Dane L. Rowe Memorial Highway.” “Thanks to the unyielding work of retired Madison Township police sergeant Gary McDonald and State Representative and State Senator-elect Hearcel Craig, a portion of South Hamilton Road is now memorialized for Officer Rowe,” said Madison Township Police Chief Gary York. “We’ll never forget Dane. Dane and those who fall in the line of duty must never be forgotten.” Added Craig, “This sign is not just a piece of metal. It represents the life of a man who honored his family and his community.” McDonald said Rowe was an officer that any police department “would have been proud to call their own.” Rowe’s widow, Linda Lipsitt said, “Our family is extremely touched. Dane loved his job and lived life with a purpose and to do what he could to make a positive difference for others.” Pictured here is Lipsitt cutting the ribbon for the sign as Craig (left) and York (right) look on.
The dedication ceremony was wonderful. I can’t thank Gary McDonald enough for his hard work in making this memorial for Dane happen. His tireless efforts, as well as the efforts by everyone who helped him along the way, will not be forgotten. And thanks to everyone’s hard work, Dane’s ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten. After hearing those that spoke at the dedication ceremony, it is clear that Dane’s short life positively impacted many who keep his memory living on.