Robert B. (Bob) Bower, of Salem, Va., died on Wednesday, February 23, 2011, at the Lewis-Gale Medical Center where he was the Chief Construction Engineer in 1972 and remained with the hospital until he left in 1993 to form Commonwealth Inspector's Services. He graduated from Greenbrier Military School, University of Maryland, and attended Virginia Commonwealth University and Roanoke College. He enjoyed membership in Central United Methodist Men, the Salem Kiwanis Club, and the Greenbrier Military Alumni Association. He will be remembered for his involvement in Relay for Life (the hotdog stand), and roasting chestnuts for the Olde Salem Christmas and the Community Christmas Store.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Custis and Ruby Bower; and in-laws, the Reverend Frank and Frances Blevins.
His surviving family includes his wife, Brenda B. Bower; son, Christopher B. Bower; sister, Mary B. Lotts; brothers-in-law, Frank O. Blevins and wife, Ann, and Ronald G. Blevins and wife, Linda; nephews, Andrew Blevins and wife, Laurie, Ryan Blevins and wife, Michelle, Kevin L. Lotts and wife, Tonya; nieces, Kelly Pittman and husband, Eric, and Kim Janney and husband, Sean; greatnieces; a great-nephew; numerous cousins; special friends; Lewis-Gale co-workers; and his General Imports family, who called him "Pops." And, lest we not forget his love for his dogs.
A family visitation with a brunch will be held on Saturday, February 26, 2011, from 10 a.m. until noon at the Central United Methodist Church, 428 S. College Ave., Salem, Va. 24153. The Celebration of Bob's life will begin at noon in the sanctuary. Interment will follow at Sherwood Memorial Park. The Rev. Kristin Holbrook will officiate.
Contributions may be made to either the Central United Methodist Men, 428 College Avenue, Salem, Va. 24153, the American Cancer Society, Relay for Life, 2840 Electric Road, Suite 106, Roanoke, Va. 24018, or to the Boy Scouts of America, 2131 Valley View Boulevard, NW, Roanoke, Va. 24012. Online condolences to the family may be made at www.johnmoakey.com. The Bower family is being served by John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home in Salem, Va., 540-389-5441.