William George Bower, Jr.

William G. Bower, Jr., 81, beloved Father and Brother, was called to his eternal resting place on January 24, 2021. He entered this world on April 6, 1939, in Cleveland, OH, born to William G. Bower and Vernell Bower (nee Drew).

He is survived by his son William G. Bower III, daughter Tamela Bower Stoehr (husband Martin) and two grandchildren Martin Alexander Stoehr and William Andrew Stoehr. He is also survived by sister Vernell Hastings and brother Donald Bower (wife Janet). He was preceded in death by his brother Norman Bower (widow Michele).

“Bill” attended John Adams High School, class of 1956 where he was a Cadet member of the Ohio Wing of the Civil Air Patrol.

He served in the U.S Army from 1956-1959 where he started off in the 101st Airborne Division and was awarded his Parachutist badge. Bill earned both an Expert - Auto Rifle badge, and a Marksman – Rifle badge during his tour in South Korea where he served in the 5th Cavalry, Demilitarized Zone Police Company patrolling the DMZ.

Bill was a member of the Masonic Pentalpha Lodge No. 636 F. & A.M., East Cleveland, OH where he was Raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason in 1966.

He began his career in freight and ultimately owned his family’s company: Ohio Express, Inc. Bill went on to spend many years crisscrossing the US, delivering cargo with his CDL. He eventually completed his driving career at Yellow Freight and retired as a member of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters.

Bill was an accomplished recreational pilot and instructor, holding a commercial pilot certificate and always loved flying both his Piper Colt and Piper Cherokee. He also enjoyed sailing on Lake Erie and kept his sailboat at Lakeside Yacht Club. He liked gun smithing, was SCUBA certified as a dry suit, ice diver, and was often found riding his Harley Sportster or Buell Blast in the Parma area. Bill was a member of the Ohio Gun Collectors Association, The American Legion, Donauschwaben German-American Cultural Center, and the German Central Foundation.

A private memorial service is planned.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Parkinson's research are requested.

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