DUNKIRK: Robert R. Bowker, 96, a resident of Chautauqua Nursing & Rehab Center, Dunkirk, formerly of Pearl Street, Forestville, went to the Lord, Tuesday, January 15th, 2019 at his residence. He was born in the Village of Forestville, on August 30, 1922, the son of the late Homer R. and Lucy I. (Matteson) Bowker, Sr.
Mr. Bowker was a graduate of Forestville Central School, Class of 1941. He served in the U.S. Army Air Force as a SSGT during WW II, was stationed in the Phillipines, received 3 Oak Leaf Clusters and flew 51 missions as a Tailgunner.
Mr. Bowker worked as a Machine Shop Foreman at Lakeside Precision, Inc. Dunkirk, retiring in 1987. He previously worked as a Machinist for the former Foster Aluminum of Forestville, the former Alcoa of Dunkirk and Bailey Manufacturing of Forestville. He was an over 60 year member of J. Carter Knapp American Legion Post #953, Forestville, a member of the NRA and the Fredonia Rifle & Pistol Club. Mr. Bowker enjoyed rifle and bullseye pistol shooting during the 1950’s & 60’s, he held a “Master” title in bullseye shooting and enjoyed spending time with nature and hunting.
Survivors include a son, Wayne (Anita) Bowker, of Thousand Oaks, CA; a daughter, Karen (Lawrence) Waterman, of Sebastian, FL; and a brother, Homer “Chum” (Beth) Bowker, Jr., of Forestville. Also surviving are five grandchildren, three great grandchildren, four great-great grandchildren and several nieces & nephews. Besides his parents he was predeceased by his wife Ruth M. (Crowell) Bowker, whom he married August 29, 1942 and who died April 17, 1994.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, June 8th, from 1-4pm at the J. Carter Knapp American Legion, Cedar Street, Forestville, with Rev. Michael Pollock, pastor of Gage Chapel Community Church, officiating. A Military Service will be conducted at 2 o’clock by members of J. Carter Knapp American Legion and the County Color Guard. Private Interment will be in Forestville Cemetery.
The family suggests memorial donations may be made either to the Forestville Fire Dept. Emergency & Rescue Squad, PO Box 299, Forestville, NY 14062 or to J. Carter Knapp American Legion Post #953, PO Box 492, Forestville, NY 14062.
Arrangements are by Riles & Woolley Funeral Home, Forestville. To post condolences go to www.rilesandwoolleyfuneralhome.com.
