Robert J. Lowder

Robert J. Lowder, 96, of Marshall Michigan, passed away on December 24 at the Calhoun County Medical Care Facility in Battle Creek.  Robert, Big Moe to his friends, was born in Marshall on October 27, 1927 to Silas Lowder and Lillian (Bugden) Lowder. 

Robert worked at Post Cereal in Battle Creek for 8 years and Corning Glass in Albion for 20 years before moving to Mesa, AZ.  During this time, he developed his skill as a brick layer and stone mason.  Many of the sandstone building facades in the area are the result of his handiwork. 

Robert loved to fish and hunt.  In his later years he began painting scenes on old saw blades that became quite popular.  He also enjoyed woodworking and drawing cartoons for his friends.  He loved to tell jokes and make people laugh.  One of his favorite sayings was, “You might as well laugh as to cry.”

The last three years he made many friends at CCMCF and his care workers thought of him as a beloved member of their family.  Big Moe felt the same about them.

Preceding Robert in death were his parents and brothers Ken Lowder and Bill Lowder.  Surviving Robert are his children Sandy (Phil) Robison, Jerry Lowder, Terry (Roxane) Lowder and Steve (Kathy) Lowder. 

He also left behind 8 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren whom he loved dearly. 

A visitation for Robert will be held on Friday, December 29, 2023 from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm at Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services, 723 US Hwy 27 N, Marshall, MI 49068 with a funeral service beginning at 1:00 pm.  A graveside service will follow at Riverside Cemetery located at 1301 S. Superior Street, Albion MI  49224.

Memorial contributions can be made in Robert’s honor to Calhoun County Medical Care Facility, 1150 E. Michigan Avenue, Battle Creek MI 49014. 

To view the obituary and sign the online guestbook, or leave the family condolences please visit: https://www.kempffuneralhome.com