Robert Louis Fowler

Robert Louis Fowler, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, relative, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 6, 2024. Known for his boundless energy and love for life, Robert was a man full of pride, humor, and compassion. His passion for life was palpable to all who met him, and his legacy will live on through the many lives he touched.

Born and raised in San Diego, California, Robert was the second of three children born to Ruby B. Perry and Mike Fowler. He grew up alongside his sisters, Edna Louise and Ruby Jean. A high school football star, his love of sports began early and influenced generations of athletes in his family.

After graduating from San Diego High School in 1959, Robert married his high school sweetheart, Carolann Grace Groff, in 1960. Their first child, Claudia Grace, was born prematurely and passed away shortly after her birth. Robert and Carolann, known to most people as Grace, later welcomed four more children: Rodney Lauren, Mark Scott, Charlyn Grace, and Robin Lisa.

Robert served in the U.S. Air Force, earning the rank of Airman 2nd Class, and was honorably discharged in 1962. For six years he worked for the United States Postal Service, carrying mail out of the historic downtown office and delivering to nearby parts of San Diego and the city of Coronado.

After leaving the Postal Service, Robert continued his education at San Diego City College, attending at night, while working part-time at The Standard Brands Paint Company. Taking advantage of the G.I. Bill, he graduated from San Diego State University in 1972 and briefly pursued a law degree at the University of California, Davis.

Robert worked a number of years in the private sector before accepting a job offer with the Internal Revenue Service, which he retired from after 20 years of dedicated service in 2001. Robert married twice more, most recently to Peggy Brannen from 2002 to 2010.

He loved music, particularly jazz and blues, and his appreciation for improvisation extended into his everyday life, too. He was known for his creativity, resourcefulness, and the deep impression he left on those around him.

An avid sportsman, Robert enjoyed everything from basketball and road cycling to skiing and golf. He was a member of the Mountain View Ski Club, part of the National Brotherhood of Skiers, and a fixture at Balboa Park's 9-hole golf course during his retirement years.

Above all, Robert was immensely proud of his family and their accomplishments. He instilled in them a love for learning, sports, and perseverance; their successes reflect the influence he had on their lives.

Robert was preceded in death by his daughter Claudia Grace, his parents, and his sister Edna Louise. He is survived by his sister, Ruby Jean, his four children: Rodney Sr. (wife, Tyler), Mark (wife, Barbara), Charlyn (husband, Jim), and Robin (husband, Mark); ten grandchildren: Michael (wife, Adriane), Deva, Rodney Jr., Austin (wife, Vannessa), Nadia, Marco, Giulia, Vito, Isabella, and Mia; nine great-grandchildren: Rodney III, Demi, Ferah, Kobe, Marlo, Ashton, Maxwell, Nova and Nile; a host of nieces, nephews, many other relatives and friends.

His memory will forever be a blessing to his family and countless others.