Robert Mowry

Dr. Robert Lou Mowry, age 90, of Sturgis passed away after a short illness on November 26th, 2017 at Borgess Gardens in Kalamazoo, MI. Bob was born on January 20th, 1927, in Sturgis, Michigan and was the firstborn son to Russel L. and Mildred L. Mowry (Kelly). He grew up on his parents' farm, graduated from Sturgis High School, and was a veteran of World War II serving in the U.S. Navy in 1945 through 1946. He received his first degree from Michigan State University giving him his "vocation" for over 60 years as a Veterinarian. His job was healing animals, but his passion was Education: Literature, the Arts, and all aspects of the Sciences. His life's goal was to make those fundamental attainments available to everyone in his community. He was a life-long academic and learner, as he both mentored and inspired others to continuously set and achieve their own greater goals. Bob lived for, reveled in, and happily doted on his family. His wife, children and grandchildren were his greatest joy. That is what he felt was his greatest gift to the world. That being said, he was instrumental in the design, concept, and development of Glen Oaks Community College. He served the college in multiple roles as it grew and expanded. He worked with the Community Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services of St. Joseph County to offer the surrounding area well structured care and support. He was a founding member of The Open Door Gallery and Art Center (the co-operative gallery that showcases and encourages local artists) offering classes to artists of all levels. Bob had an innate ability to paint a landscape or floral grouping and was an accomplished artist in many mediums throughout his lifetime. Bob is survived by his sister Lora (William) Holtz of Wisconsin, his children, Kim Mowry Robertson (Thomas) of Sturgis, MI, Lisa Mowry Trosien (Thomas) of Aurora, Illinois, Kristin Mowry McCray (Patrick) of Schoolcraft, MI, and Daniel Robert Mowry (Sheila) of Portage, MI. Survivors include 6 grandchildren: Lauren Robertson (Chester Martin) of NY, Marta Robertson (Mariano Alvarez) of NC, Jenna Trosien of IL, Macie Trosien of IL, Alison Mowry of MI, and Adam Mowry of MI. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife and partner Elizabeth Mowry (Woehr), his twin brother, William L. Mowry, his younger brothers Douglas M. Mowry, Michael L. Mowry, and Thomas N. Mowry. In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place. A visitation for friends and family will be held on Saturday, December 16th, 2017 at the Hackman Chapel of Hackman Family Funeral Homes at 114 S. Nottowa St., Sturgis, MI 49091 from 1 to 4 pm. The family requests in lieu of flowers that donations be made in Bob's name to the Open Door Art Gallery and Art Center 101 W. Chicago Rd., Sturgis, MI 49091or Glen Oaks Community College, 62249 Shimmel Rd., Centreville, MI 49032.