Robert Cowder Jr.

Robert (Bob) Blyth Cowder Jr. passed away from complications of cancer on August 30, 2016 surrounded by his family.

Bob was born in Clearfield, PA on June 15, 1944 to Robert Blyth Cowder Sr., and Ruth Cowdrick.  He joined the U. S. Air Force in 1962.  As he boarded the plane for his first duty station at Hill AFB, his father said, “Don’t go marry one of those Mormon girls.”

He married Carolyn Ann Price on November 1, 1963 and they were blessed with three sons; Robert Troy Cowder, Randy Scott Cowder (Laura) and Shawn Michael Cowder (Melissa).

After traveling to numerous bases, including AK twice, he finished his Air Force career back at Hill AFB.  Bob retired after 24 years of service and went to the Job Corps, IRS, and then back to Hill AFB for another 17 years as a civilian.

Bob was born and bred Steelers and Pirates fan.  He was always involved in sports; baseball and golf being his favorites.  Bob played on numerous baseball teams throughout his life and was the best left-handed first baseman around.  He always said that he wanted his ashes scattered at first base of the Pirates Three Rivers Stadium (now gone).  Bob coached the baseball teams for his sons from the time they could swing a bat until high school.

Bob was preceded in death by his mother, father and step-mother, Ethel Gourley.  He is survived by his wife, three sons, one granddaughter, three grandsons, two step-granddaughters, brothers, Michael Cowder, Mark Cowder and Bart Bartholomew.

Funeral services will be held Friday, September 2, 2016 at 2 p.m. at Lindquist’s Layton Mortuary, 1867 No. Fairfield Road.  Friends may visit Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. and Friday from 12:45 to 1:45 p.m. at the mortuary.

Inurnment, Syracuse City Cemetery, Saturday, September 10, 2016 at 2 p.m.