Robert Jacob Bower

Robert Jacob Bower, 96, of Kentland, passed away Friday, January 18, 2019. He was born in Brook to the late Jacob Charles and Ruby (Neary) Bower. Robert had lived with John and Ann for the last seven years in Darien, IL.

He was a 1940 graduate of Goodland High School and a 1946 graduate of St. Joseph College in Rensselaer. Robert was as WWII veteran serving as a Cryptographer within the headquarters of General McCarthy.

His marriage was to Dorothy Spear on February 26, 1949 in St. Mary Cathedral of Lafayette. Dorothy preceded him in death after 62 years of marriage.

Robert was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, served as Precinct Committee Chairman, and Past President of the American Legion in Brook.

Robert spent most of his life farming on the family farm in the Brook area and also served as Superintendent of the State Highway in Benton County. He enjoyed spending time at his favorite restaurant, drinking coffee with longtime friends and family, discussing farm commodities, and politics.

He is survived by his children, James C. Bower (Vicki Heckman) of Zionsville, IN, Mary Bower Leisure (Robert Leisure) Rochester Hills, MI, Jane Bower Dilts of Winamac, Michael Bower (Amelie Landry) New Iberia, LA, and Ann Bower Huber (John Huber) of Darien, IL. Also surviving are 12 grandchildren, Allison Bower Adams (Will), David Bower (Nezha), Jacob Leisure, Anne Marie Leisure Wing (Gordon), William Dilts (Emily), Charles Dilts (Cara), Kevin Bower, Elyse Bower, Irene Bower Doucet (Elliot), Amelie Bower Andrepont (Eric), Kevin Huber, and Theresa Huber and 6 great-grandchildren, Bobby Dilts, Nora Wing, Ainsley Andrepont, Nathan Andrepont, Zane Bower, and Eleanor Adams.

Preceding him in death along with his parents and wife are brothers, Ralph Bower (Cecile), and Raymond Bower (Martha).

Friends may call from 9:30 AM (CST) until the time of Funeral Mass 11:00 AM (CST) Friday, January 25, 2019 at St. Joseph Catholic Church of Kentland. Fr. Robert Bernotas to officiate. Interment to follow in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in Robert's name to St. Joseph Catholic Church (409 E. Allen St. Kentland, IN 47951).

Share memories and condolences online at www.clapperfuneralservices.com.