Robert Joe Stowell

Robert Joe Stowell age 85, of Grand Rapids and formerly Hastings, passed away May 18, 2013, peacefully at home.

Bob was born May 31, 1928 in Hastings, the son of Chester and Florabelle (Willits) Stowell. He attended Hastings High School, graduating in 1946.

Bob married Betty Jean Fuller on July 3, 1949.

Bob honorably served in the US Marines during World War II, stationed in Hawaii.

After returning from the war, he worked with his father in his building business at Stowell's Construction Company for several years. In 1954 he began work at the Department of Natural Resources for the State of Michigan. Bob was employed for 30 years, until his retirement. He held a number of positions, while employed for the DNR, his favorite being in forest fire prevention and control.

Bob loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman. He was a member of the Faith United Methodist Church of Cutlerville, Michigan and the Caledonia Gun Club.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Forabelle and Chester Stowell, wife, Betty Stowell, daughter, Elizabeth Jane Stowell and aunt, Gertrude O'Keefe.

Bob is survived by his daughters: Debbie Stowell of Grand Rapids, MI, and Kathy Barr of Mason, MI, son, Robert Earl Stowell of Byron Center, MI, daughter-in-law, Jeri Lyn Stowell of Byron Center, granddaughters: Abbie Stowell of Byron Center, grandsons: Emery Barr, Austin Barr and Lucas Barr all of Mason, MI and Adam Stowell of Byron Center, nephew, Steven (Sara) Stowell of Colorado Springs, CO, niece, Kristen Caldwell of Park City, Utah and nephew, Kim Fuller of Weslaco, TX, and brother, Douglas (Carol) Stowell of Ashburn, VA.

Memorial Contributions:
Boy Scouts of America
www.scouting.org