James Delbert Bowers

James D. Bowers, 85, of Freeport, passed away, Thursday, November 19, 2015, at Stephenson Nursing Center. James was born on November 18, 1930 in Freeport, the son of Delbert and Nellie (Geiger) Bowers. He married Marjorie E. Tretter on June 4, 1950 at Saint Mary's Church in Freeport. James worked for Burgess Cellouse, U.S. Bank formerly known as State Bank, and drove the V.A. bus for 20 years. He served in the Army during the Korean War from 1951-1953 and the National Guard from 1948-1953. James was a member of Saint Mary's Catholic Church in Freeport. He was a lifetime member of the Moose Lodge, V.F.W., and AMVETS. He also was a former member the Elks and Eagles Club. James was very active in the Boy Scouts and enjoyed bowling. During the holidays James was Santa Claus at DeMeester's Floral Shop, the Moose Lodge in Rockford, and in private homes. James is survived by his wife Marjorie E. Bowers of Freeport; two sons, Michael J. Bowers (Micki) of South Beloit, Illinois, and Jeffrey L. Bowers (Lezlie) of Waterloo, Iowa; five grandchildren: Lucas (Shannon), Megan (Andrew), Carli, Sam, and Shannon; six great-grandchildren: Neveah, Ireland, Kennedy, Trenton, Jaiden and Braedon. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends. James is preceded in death by his mother, father, brother (Jackie), and great-grandson Dillon. Funeral services will be held 2:00 P.M. Tuesday November 24, 2015 at Burke-Tubbs Funeral Home in Freeport with Rev. Bill Blomberg officiating. There will be a visitation from 12:30 P.M. until the time of service. Burial will be at Chapel Hill memorial Gardens. A memorial has been established in his memory. Please sign his guestbook and share a memory at www.burketubbs.com.