Robert Lee Bowers, retired Sr. Chief USN, 82, of Solomons Island, died November 23, 2010 at Charlotte Hall Veteran's Home where he had been a resident for three and a half years.

He was born February 3, 1928, in Boonsboro, Maryland to Albert Lee Bowers and Nellie (Palmer) Bowers.

Bob grew up on a farm near Middletown, Maryland and attended the Middletown schools. He enlisted in the US Navy February 3,1945 and served in three wars: WWII, Korean War, Vietnam War and during the 'Cold War'. He served in the Atlantic and Pacific Fleets as a Navy engineman and was honorably retired in 1969. After retiring Bob worked at Public Works at the Patuxent River Naval Station until his retirement from Civil Service in 1992.

Bob married Gladys E. Pedersen of Solomons Island on January 11, 1957 and they "followed the fleet" from Pearl Harbor to San Diego, Alaska, and on to Nebraska where Chief Bowers' served as the Navy Recruiter; then back to sea duty and on to Korea, Hong Kong, Manila, Pacific Islands (Okinawa, Guam, Midway); Yokohama, Yokosuka and other ports in Japan. Bob served 3 and a half years in Vietnam aboard the USS Washoe County LST 1165.

He was a member of the Solomons United Methodist Church, a Life Member of the American Legion Post 274, Life Member of the National Association of Fleet Tug Sailors, member of the US LST Association, a member of the Fleet Reserve Association and the Navy Memorial. He enjoyed traveling, gardening, stamp and coin collecting, visiting family and socializing with friends.

Bob is survived by his wife Gladys and his sister, Lana Cobb of Rehoboth, DE. A memorial service will be held at Solomons United Methodist Church February 12, 2011 at 11 A.M. followed by a luncheon, gathering and remembrance time.

Arrangements provided by Rausch Funeral Home.

Memorial Service
February 12, 2011
11:00 AM
Solomons United Methodist Church