Remembering Jerry Marlowe’s joyful legacy
DOVER (WJER) (March 12, 2026) – Plans are coming together to fittingly remember longtime Dover pharmacist and community figure Jerry Marlowe, who passed away Sunday at the age of 90.
Known for his passions—local theater, gourmet cooking, the Tuscarawas Philharmonic, hospice work, and countless community causes—Marlowe also brought joy through his trademark collection of nearly 200 whimsical hats, which he wore as conversation starters and to brighten the days of nursing home residents.
In his honor, Kait Gallagher-Wilsterman says Little Theatre is encouraging attendees to don their own “crazy hats” at the Community Variety Show on March 28.
Marlowe, a proud Buckeye, became known over the decades for “sneaking” into Ohio State–Michigan games in Columbus by adopting a series of playful disguises—an escapade that once earned him a feature on ESPN. He said the tradition began in the mid‑1950s, when he wore his father’s tuxedo and top hat to a game and unintentionally walked past the ticket taker without being stopped. In the years that followed, he entered the stadium dressed as a band member, referee, female cheerleader, pizza deliveryman, and even Superman—despite always having a valid ticket.
Marlowe is survived by his wife, Willi, and will be celebrated at a memorial service this Sunday at 2 p.m. at the Geib Funeral Center in Dover.