Robert Lawrence Crowell, 95, of Rockford, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather passed away peacefully on September 15, 2018 at Amberwood Nursing Home in Rockford after struggling many years with Dementia. Robert was born on May 11, 1923 in Cobden, IL, son of Thomas and Mamie (Blessing) Crowell. He moved to Rockford after joining the Army during WWII, and was stationed at Camp Grant. He married Marylou Bezdek on December 18, 1943. Robert attained the rank of Sergeant and was stationed in England during the D-Day invasion of Europe. After leaving the Army, Robert returned to Rockford where he was employed as a Meat Cutter for Broadway - Courtesy Certified and Larson Food Services. Robert was an avid camper; he served as host camper at Pierce Lake Campgrounds for many years. Robert was a long attending member of Central Christian Church where he served on the board and as an Elder. Robert was a member and past commander of American Legion Post #60 in Rockford.
Robert and Marylou had 6 children: Stephanie Schultz (deceased), Robin (Gerald) King, Sherry Ransford, James (Pat) Crowell, Donald Crowell and Jody (Barry) McMahon; 14 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and numerous great-great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggest memorials be given to Central Christian Church.
Visitation for Robert will be Saturday September 22, 2018 from 10:30 am until 11:30 am at Advantage Funeral Home 7000 West State Street in Rockford; services to celebrate Roberts’s life will follow at 11:30 am at the funeral home. Burial will be at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Machesney Park. Condolences may be sent to www.advantagefunerals.com
