CUMBERLAND — Robert “Bob” Kenneth Mowery Sr., 85, of Cumberland, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2012, at the Allegany Nursing and Rehab Center.
He was born on Nov. 23, of 1926, in Cumberland to the late Cyrus and Minnie Mowery. Bob was also preceded in death by his sisters, Rosella Kelly and Rita Fawley; and his brother, Homer Mowery.
After a brief period with the Western Maryland Railroad, Bob was a machinist for over 30 years at Kelly Springfield Tire, retiring in 1987 as one of the last maintenance crew members. He was a committed member of Second Baptist Church where he served as a Trustee. Serving faithfully as part of the church’s Care Ministry was truly a joyous part of his life. The members of Second were very special to Bob and he loved telling others how much the church meant to him.
Bob’s other deep joy was spending 26 years building a legacy of love on the South Branch of the Potomac. “Camp” was where Bob devoted his sweat and tears surviving three floods to make a summer home for his entire extended family. His hard work and creativity was present in the camp where many friends and family members visited frequently. There were lots of floating trips down the river, campfires, great eats and poker games.
He is survived by his wife of over 65 years, Dorothy (Arrington); his son, Robert K. Mowery Jr. and wife Stephanie; his daughter, Sheila Dillon and husband Sherrill; his brother, Donnie Mowery and wife Chris; two sisters, Dolly Kaufman and Yvonne (Toots) Young and husband Frank; and sister-in-law, Phyllis Mowery.
Bob’s second greatest loves were his eight grandchildren, Shawn Mowery, Troy Mowery (Jen), Todd Mowery (Tina), Hannah Dillon (John), Rachel Adefolaju (Lanre), Nathan Dillon (Beth), Rebekah Bangh (Mike), and Melissa Baker; and his six great-grandchildren, Tre Flagg, Ethan Painter, Eva Mowery, Nick, Ryan and Grace Mowery.
Bob and his wife spent many long vacations with their special extended family members in Montana and Florida. Thanks to his skillful hands, Bob was frequently put to work, making him a cherished visitor. But there was always time for fun since Bob loved boating, fishing, and hunting.
Due to health difficulties, Bob spent the past three years at the Rehab Center. Although his family kept Bob very involved in their lives and the life of his church, the staff at the Center was so loving to him that they became part of his family. Their devotion and kindness to him made being away from his family more bearable.
A celebration of his life will take place on Feb. 18, at Second Baptist Church in Cumberland. Friends will be received at 2 p.m. with the service beginning at 3 p.m. All are welcome to share a meal at the church immediately following the service.
Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in memory of Bob to Second Baptist Church, 1 Grand Ave., Cumberland, MD 21505.
The Adams Family Funeral Home, P.A., 404 Decatur St., Cumberland, (www.AdamsFamilyFuneralHome.com) has been assisting with the arrangements.
