Robert I. Lowry

OBITUARY OF ROBERT I. LOWRY: 1913-2003

Robert I. Lowry, 90, having lived in his home on Trumbull Avenue in Warren for over 60 years, peacefully departed on December 28, 2003, at Mahoning Valley Hospital, Warren, Ohio. Born on April 12, 1913 in the town of Thurston, Nebraska, Bob was the oldest of seven children born to Otis and Grace (Longwell) Lowry.

Bob graduated from Leavittsburg High School in 1931 and attended Oberlin Business College. He obtained his Bachelor's Degree in Accounting from Youngstown State University while working at Republic Steel Company in Warren, Ohio.

Robert was a Supervisor in the Shipping Department of Republic Steel and was a member of the Foremen's Club prior to his retirement in 1978. As a member of First United Methodist Church, he served as Chairman of the Administrative Board and Music Committee, Head Usher and Trustee. As a member of the Old Erie Lodge #5, he participated in the Masonic Choir, Scottish Rite and Cleveland Shrine. For many years, Robert served on the Board of the Rebecca Williams Community Center. He was past President of Warren Community Forum, Warren Junior Chamber of Commerce and Warren Area Jaycees, Republic Steel Supervisor's Club and was a member of B.P.O.E. Post 295 Elks. Bob was also President of the Warren Civic Music Association for 12 years and was honored as its "Warren Music Man" for his 30 years of service as a Board Member. On his 80th birthday, well-known guest artist, pianist Roger Williams surprised Bob by playing "Happy Birthday" to him at the concert.

In addition to all of his community activities, Bob was very active in sports. He was an avid golfer and was involved in both golf and bowling leagues in the Warren area.

Bob and Ione (Winbigler) were married in 1936 and reared three children, Lynette (David) Flick of Akron, Ohio; Diana (Dee Dee) (Floyd) Wicks of Santa Barbara, California and Greg Lowry D.D.S., of Santa Barbara, California. Preceded in death by his beloved wife of 43 years, "Oney" (Ione), his brothers Harold and Bernard, sisters Dorothy (Guesman) and Janet (Prox), he is survived by brother Stanley of Virginia and Phyllis (Kush) of Warren; grandchildren: William Robert (Beth) Evick, Brandon Lowry Wicks, Gregory Alan (Sarah) Flick, Sharon (David) Long and Carolyn Flick. There are also 4 great-grandchildren: Christian Evick, Caroline and Andrew Flick and Micah Long.

Special friends were always important to Bob and these included AnneYashnik and her family. Ron and Marylou Chapin and family were immediate neighbors to Bob and were always there, day or night.

Bob will be remembered as an honorable, humble man who loved his wife and family and enjoyed serving the people of Warren, Ohio. For years, he donated numerous pints of blood to the American Red Cross. In his public service, he was known as a man who was able to help members of groups reach consensus in decision-making.

The family wishes to thank his faithful care-givers from Gentiva Health Services, the doctors, nurses and staff of Forum Health TMH and Mahoning Valley Hospitals, Pastor Rick Oaks and his wife Brigitta and the many friends and families who have expressed their kindness to Bob and his family.

Friends may call at the McFarland & Son Funeral Home: 271 North Park Avenue this Friday evening, January 2, 2004, from 5 - 7 p.m. A Masonic memorial service will be held at 6:45 p.m. Funeral Services will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, January 3, 2004, at McFarland & Sons Funeral Home, with Pastor Rick Oaks ministering. Bob will be laid to rest at Crown Hill Cemetery, next to his wife, father and mother. In lieu of flowers, at Bob's request, donations may be made to First United Methodist Church, 309 North Park Avenue, Warren, Ohio 44481.