Rudy G. Rowlett 1947-2025

By Paso Robles Press · Thu Sep 25 2025

Rudy Gene Rowlett, 77, of Paso Robles, CA. passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, August 16, 2025, in San Luis Obispo, CA. 

Born in Atascadero, CA, in 1947 to Rudolph and Imogene Holstine Rowlett (Thixton), he was raised in Paso Robles, graduating with the Bearcat class of 1965. 

After high school, he attended Cuesta College before joining the US Navy, where he served for four years. He returned home to Paso, where he was co-owner of Sierra Exploration, a water well drilling business, and then, along with his wife Barbara, they bought the Sweet Shoppe Deli. Shortly after that, he went to work for Robert Heely Inc., as a company foreman in the oil fields for over 30 years. He then worked offshore for Brinderson before retiring. 

Rudy was a classic car enthusiast and enjoyed participating in all kinds of sports. His greatest joy was coaching his boys and watching his grandkids in their chosen sports. He was a fan of the Las Vegas Raiders, and like his dad, the Los Angeles Dodgers. 

He was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Marissa Smiley; his parents, Rudy and Imogene; and his stepfather, Clyde Thixton. 

Rudy leaves behind his wife of 53 years, Barbara (Nielsen) Rowlett. Sons Paul (Leslee) Smiley III and Jason (Raquel) Smiley. Rudy Aaron (Angie) Rowlett and Jared (Lynn) Rowlett. His grandchildren Wyatt, Gage, Shilo, Shayne, Ryann, Garrett, Dyllan (Kaley), and Jasmine Smiley. Lexie, Nathan, and Ian Rowlett, Kennice (Andy) Cooper, Jordan, Olivia, Jaxon, and Bennett Rowlett. His great-grandchildren, Wren and Frankie Smiley, and Emilia and Callum Cooper. His sister, Jacki (Ray) Morrison, and brother, Randy (Laura) Rowlett. Sister-in-law Kathy (Tim) Johnson and brother-in-law David Nielsen and their families, including more than 20 nieces and nephews, as well as a large extended family and lifelong friends. 

A celebration honoring Rudy has yet to be decided.