Robert E. Bowles

Robert (Bob) Earl Bowles was born on February 23, 1948 in Dallas, Texas to Odell and Ressie (Huddleston) Bowles. He grew up in Irving, Texas until his family moved to Coppell, Texas in 1962. He graduated from Coppell High School on May 27, 1966. He was a resident of Euless, Texas at the time of his death.

Robert registered for the draft on February 23, 1966, enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve on May 9, 1966, and reported to Camp Pendleton on May 31, 1966. He served his country during the Vietnam War and was actively in the Marine Corps from 1966 to 1969.

Robert was preceded in death by his mother, Ressie Huddleston Bowles (2010); his sister, Annette Bowles Rhoades (1979); his grandparents, Elvis and Susie Bowles, and Robert and Sarah Huddleston.

He is survived by his father, Odell Bowles of Grapevine, Texas; brothers, Odell (Buddy) Bowles of Justin, Texas and Paul Bowles and wife, Martha of Grapevine, Texas; sister, Paula Venable and husband, Ronnie of Grapevine, Texas. He is also survived by 10 nieces and nephews, Terrie Hagood (Tony), Michael Hawkins, Pamela Smith, Patricia Graves (Denis), Buddy Hal Bowles, Heather Bowles-Taylor (Chris), Michelle Weston (Craig), Brian Dunn (Maria), Andrew Dunn (Elizabeth), and Daniel Dunn (Rachel); as well as, several great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and a grateful country.

Robert was a history buff. He not only loved World and Military history but also his own personal history. Nothing made him happier than to come across a nugget of information in any of these areas. He spent countless hours searching and researching old family records. He was known for taking impromptu road trips to follow up on leads about his roots and heritage.

He loved his country, even when his country did not love him back. His greatest passion was for the American Legion. He was a member for 27 years and was proud and honored to be a part of it and all it stands for. He was the chaplain for the Sons of the American Legion and a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He was proud to say that when his country called, that he volunteered to serve and he believed that his time in service made him a better person. It was with that heart that he continued to serve his fellow veterans in whatever way he could.

His roles within the American Legion included: Historian, service officer, and a member of the executive board at large. He taught Boy Scouts how to fold the American Flag, he was a paid up life member, a part of the honor guard, Toys for Tots, Cancer Aid and research, and he volunteered at the Patriot House, which is a homeless shelter for veterans.

Robert was called home on May 19, 2017. While it was sudden and unexpected for us, it was in God's perfect timing and He makes no mistakes. He will be greatly missed by family, friends, and those whose lives were touched and impacted through his service and devotion.

Visitation: The family will greet guests from 6 to 8 pm Friday at Lucas Funeral Home in Grapevine. Graveside Service: 10:15 am Saturday at the Dallas Fort Worth National Cemetery.