Francis Robert "Bob" Bowles

Francis Robert “Bob” Bowles, 83 of Laurel, MD went home peacefully on Thursday, September 10, 2020. 

Francis was born on January 18, 1937 in St. Mary’s County, Hollywood, MD, to the late Francis Oswald Bowles and Ann Noema Abell Bowles. 

He is survived by his wife Carol Ann Klein of eight years and step-daughter Cathy Ann Klein-Glover (Bill); his daughters Paula Ann Deister (Don), Joanne Marie Sharp (Mel); his grandchildren Brianne Lynn Montgomery (Paul), Andrew Robert Sharp, Matthew Thomas Sharp, Laurel Glover and James Glover and many nieces and nephews.

Francis is predeceased by his first wife of 53 years, Peggy Ann Bowles and sisters Ann Theresa Jones and Catherine Genevieve Bowles. 

After attending St. John’s Catholic School  in Hollywood, MD, he graduated from Great Mills High School in Lexington Park, MD.  Shortly after graduation, he enlisted in the National Guard and started his career at International Paper (Nevamar Corporation), in Odenton, MD in 1957.  He worked at Nevamar for 47 years and formed many great friendships there.  Francis received a degree in business administration while working full time.  After retiring, he returned as a business consultant. 

Francis was an active member of St. Mary of the Mills Catholic Church and was a faithful usher.  He had a strong faith and love for the Lord. 

Francis was always active and enjoyed spending time with family.  He loved playing sports such as racquetball at the Severna Park Racquetball Club and golfing at many local courses in the area.  He owned two boats, naming them after each of his daughters.  No matter if he was fishing, crabbing, or oystering, he loved spending time on the water.  His favorite holiday was Christmas.  He enjoyed making homemade wreaths of crow’s foot, eating cookies and filling the house with Christmas music.  He loved watching movies, traveling and listening to music.  He was a lifelong loyal fan of the Washington Redskins.

Francis is remembered for his creativity, strong work ethic, sense of humor, quiet demeanor and playful attitude.  He was a highly intelligent “do-it-your-selfer,” who could repair, build, or create almost anything. 

Due to the ongoing coronavirus restrictions, services for Mr. Bowles are private; however, please free to express your condolences to the family and share your memories of him on our tribute page.

In lieu of flowers, the family of Mr. Bowles asks that you make a contribution in his name to The Michael J. Fox Foundation www.michaeljfox.org.

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