Robert "Bob" L. Bowles

Bob was born on February 25, 1926, in Arvada, CO, the son of Alfred B. and Frances K. (Fechner) Bowles. He married Gertraud “Trudy” A. Petzelbauer on September 27, 1952, in Cleveland, OH.

Bob graduated from Wheat Ridge High School in Colorado and received a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering and master’s degree in statistics from Iowa State University. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army in field artillery. Bob was a member of the Honorary National Mathematics Society, Pi Mu Epsilon and held a patent in chemical engineering. He enjoyed reading, playing the piano and accordion, tennis, skiing, playing cards, especially bridge, biking, mountain climbing, and traveling. Bob believed that being good and helpful to others was most important in life.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Trudy; his sister, Virginia; and brother, Jim.

Bob is survived by his son, Jeffrey M. (Karen) Bowles of Springfield; and grandchildren, Aaron (Justin Storer) of Chicago, Alex of St. Louis, MO, Austin of Springfield, and Abby (Jake) Besserman of Granite City.

Cremation was provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center.

Memorial Ceremony: 11:30 a.m. on Monday, April 12, 2021, at Butler Funeral Home – Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield, with celebrant Judy Woerner officiating. Due to COVID restrictions there will be limited capacity.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Illinois Chapter, 2309 W. White Oaks Dr., Suite E, Springfield, IL 62704.