Robert Lee Bowers

Robert Lee Bowers, 91 of Cherry Valley, died Thursday, Jan. 21, 2010 at Maple Crest Care Centre in Belvidere. Born Jan. 17, 1919 in Washington, GA the son of Joseph Edward and Lena Mae Bowers. Married his loving wife Grace Segars in Carnesville, GA on November 13, 1938. Robert moved his family to Chicago in 1954 where over the years he established 2 businesses, Pulaski Grace Texaco Service Station and Bowers Dry Cleaners. In 1978 he and Gracie moved to Cherry Valley and founded the Original Country Skillet Restaurant. The business remained in the family for 21 years. Ordained as a Southern Baptist Minister on Oct. 16, 1963 in Chicago, IL. Bob served in many churches over the years. His greatest service however was in his daily life. His gift of kindness and generosity were extended to all. He was a wonderful father, a friend to all and to his grandchildren and great grandchildren , a fabulous "grandpa. Survivors include his daughters, Robbie (Darrell) Miller and Sandy Hendrix both of Cherry Valley; granddaughters, Cheryl (John) Herron and Krisanne Miller both of Rockford; grandsons, Bob (DeNay) Hendrix of Sioux Falls, SD and Jim Miller of Cherry Valley; great grandchildren, Ryan Hendrix, Justin Miller, Adam Hendrix, Alison and Kyle Hendrix, Elijah and Noah Herron, Charles and Ross Cozart and Madison Cozart. Preceded in death by his wife, Grace on Oct. 5, 2001 and many brothers and 1 sister. Funeral service Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2010 at 1:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Mulford Chapel 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Interment in Arlington Memorial Park. Visitation Monday, Jan. 25 from 6 8 p.m. in the funeral home and continues on Tuesday from 12 1 p.m.