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Robert Bowles Obituary

BOWLES, DR. ROBERT J., after an extended stay at Shands Hospital in Gainesville awaiting a heart transplant, returned home and died peacefully surrounded by his family in the early morning of August 5, 2012. Dr. Bowles was born on December 14, 1946 in St. Louis, MO. He graduated from the University of Illinois and received his Medical Degree from Loyola University Chicago in 1972. After completing his residency in Obstetrics & Gynecology at Loyola University he joined a private practice in Wheaton, IL for 8 years. In 1984 Dr. Bowles moved to Orlando as one of the founding members of Physician Associates. For over 25 years Dr. Bowles served as the Department Chair of the Ob/Gyn department and for 14 years as Chairman of the Board until his retirement in 2011. His spirit lives on in all of the deep personal care he rendered to his patients and the babies he delivered throughout the years. He leaves a legacy of devotion to his family, friends, patients and to Physician Associates. Dr. Bowles is survived by his wife of 43 years, Mary Anne Bowles and his daughters, Suzanne Lupori, Heather Bowles and Allison (Scott) Tulino. He also leaves behind five grandchildren, Alyssa & Kylie Lupori, Zoe Fox, Michael & Lexy Tulino; two sisters, Barb Jones & Mary Becker and one brother, Jim Bowles, MD. Memorial services will be held at Annunciation Catholic Church; 1020 Montgomery Rd, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 on Friday, August 17, 2012 at 10:00am. In lieu of flowers or other remembrances, the family requests donations be made to the American Heart Association. As a final request from Dr. Bowles he hoped that as many people as possible would become organ donors. Condolences to the family may be made at
www.HeritageDaytona.com
Arrangements under the direction of Heritage Cremation and
Memorial Chapel, Port Orange, FL.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Orlando Sentinel on Aug. 10, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Bowles

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Cathy Senior

August 4, 2025

Not only did I have the great pleasure of working for DR.Bowles for many years, he delivered these beautiful grand babies. Now 22 yrs. old. He will always have a place in my heart. My dear friend you are missed but never forgotten.

Annie

January 14, 2024

Dr. Bowles is a doctor I often think about. He broke the mold for kindness, understanding, professionalism and even humor in his career. He was my 1st gyno and also my ob when I delivered my 1st child. He was retired when my 2nd was born and my heart was absolutely broken to know about his passing. I was visiting him at the tail end of his career and I would like his family to know how excited he was to retire and live life with you guys. He lit up everytime he mentioned life after retirement and spending time with his family. I'm so sorry that was cut short and absolutely unfair. He was an amazing man and taken way too soon. May he rest in peace. Sending his family my deepest condolences. (Also I became an organ donor because of him)

Marla Gerber Davey (now Ridless)

August 24, 2023

Thought of Dr. Bowles today and searched his name and was saddened to learn of his death over a decade ago. I worked with him in St. Charles, Illinois and he delivered my daughter in 1978 and my son in 1981 at CDH in Winfield, Illinois.
RIP Bob and my condolences to your wife and children.
Marla

Christine

August 5, 2023

I will never forget Dr. Bowles. He delivered my son and stayed by me bedside all of Christmas Eve and until 5am on Christmas Day. He was the greatest person and best doctor ever.

Cathy Senior

August 4, 2023

It doesn´t seem like 11 years that you were taken home to be with Our Lord. You definitely are missed, physician associates is not the same without you. R.I.P. my friend

Cathy Senior

August 4, 2022

Not only was I this great man´s nurse for greater than ten years, he saved our grand babies. He made a life saving decision to deliver them early. Thank you Dr. Bowles you not only helped my family but so many others. I will never forget you.

Jeannne DeBeer

August 4, 2019

Gone too soon. Many fond memories.

Kasey Brandenburgh

March 26, 2019

Hello my name is Kasey Brandenburgh and my parents are Martina and Terry Brandenburgh and Dr. Bowles delivered me October 3rd, 1990 at Arnold Palmer Hospital in Orlando, FL. I am so sorry for your loss. My mom has been telling me amazing stories about him and he seemed so devoted to his work. I wish I could've met him when visiting Orlando. I am now 28 years old and living in SC.

June 20, 2018

I want to thank everyone for sharing their special stories about my husband. He was such a wonderful husband and father. It makes me, our daughters and grandchildren so happy to hear how much he touched all of you; and, how much he was appreciated. Thank you all for remembering him.
Mary Anne Bowles

Susan Hall

February 13, 2018

I am very sad to see that my all time favorite Dr. had passed away in 2012. Dr Bowles was more than a great Dr.He made me feel like I was his only patient and he took such care and interest in not only OB/GYN issues but anything that was going on. He had the BEST sense of humor my husband loved his jokes!! One particular comment after my 1st child I wont post but just to say he tells that joke to everyone still 21 years later. I and /we would drive 45 miles each way to see him.I had two high risk pregnancies and certainly had to go more than once a month. I would do it all over again! Thank you so much for sharing Dr. Bowles with us he was so very special, Our family will never forget him. May he rest in eternal peace

Alyssa

July 16, 2017

Dear Poppa,
Thank you for everything you did for this family. Thank your everything you did of everyone! you left a great legacy of your name behind, most would be lucky to be remembered as half of the man you were. I am doing a history project on family history and I stumbled across this page. reading all the ways you affected peoples lives made me so happy and proud to call you my Poppa! I love you and I miss you!

Geraldine Freeman

March 30, 2017

I did not know of his passing and very sad. He was my doctor for my last two children. I have four children. He was a great doctor and helped me through my pregnancy and delivery. My heartfelt condolences to his family.

Jim Carlson

October 4, 2016

Mary Anne and family,
Sorry to have just now learned of Bob's passing. When we were launching PruCare in Orlando in 1985 the importance of his joining cannot be overstated. He singlehandedly built the OB/GYN practice, taking call every single day for months on end. The patients and staff adored him. Despite a medical community that aggressively fought our very presence, Bob's professionalism, skill, personality and tenacity steadily built a world class practice.

I will never forget him and am grateful for having known and worked with such a dedicated and compassionate person.

Rocky Shankar

April 20, 2016

Never new Dr. Bowles but seemed like a great man!

Cassandra

November 7, 2015

I was disappointed when Dr.Bowles retired after I'd had him as my physician for 21 years. While bragging about him to another physician recently I was devastated to hear he'd passed. No words can express my sadness. He was the most caring physician and I'm yet to find one who gives me the same service. My deepest condolences to his family whom he always talked about. After having only daughters he expressed his joy at having his first grandson. Wishing his family and friends peace. I know he's missed tremendously. Thanks for everything Dr.Bowles. Rest in heavenly peace.

Dr Bowles with my son in 2005

Amber

August 1, 2015

I just discovered that Dr Bowles passed away nearly 3 years ago today. He was there for me when I miscarried my son Cody at 16 weeks, my daughter Addison at 10 weeks, and he helped deliver my amazing (now ten year old) son into the world. I knew he retired in 2011, which is the only reason he was not the one to deliver my daughter (now 4) as well. I am so sad to hear of his passing. He was a great man, very knowledgeable, and always with a joke to tell. He will be missed by so many. My prayers are with all of his family, friends, colleagues and patients. He touched many lives and I will be forever grateful to him.

Dr Bowles and my son in 2005

Amber

August 1, 2015

Gerri Mitchell

August 26, 2014

I am at Winnie Palmer my daughter is in labor. In walking to her room I was shocked
as I saw a picture of him in remberance of him, He was my dr years ago and also my older daughter. He was a wonderful dr and such a caring person. I just cried. My condolences and sincere sympathy goes out to his family. God Bless,

Christine Steele

April 7, 2014

I just learned that Dr Bowles had passed away. I am so sad. I had the great priveldge of having him as my Dr for many years. He delivered my one and only son on December 25 2000. He spent his entire Christmas Eve and all through the night sitting at my bedside so I would not have to have a C Section with my high risk delivery. He was a kind and wonderful man who I will never forget. God Bless his family. His spirit and smile will never be forgotten. He was an amazing Dr and a wonderful man.

Talaysia Jackson

February 19, 2014

I'm saddened to hear of Dr Bowles passing he's been my Dr for many years. Very good man & down to earth. My condolences to the family. God Bless you.

Patient

January 7, 2014

I just found out that Dr. Bowles passed away. I was only 20 when he delivered my daughter in 1985. I recommended him to my sisters who also became his patients. God has a special place for a man like Dr. Bowles who cared about his patients. May memories bring his family comfort.

Brandy Mareno

December 13, 2013

You will truly be missed, you were a wonderful doctor may your soul rest in peace.

December 9, 2013

Dr. Bowles saved me from a surgery that could have left me barren. I was only 22 years old at the time and he visited me the evening before the surgery to tell me he would do everything make sure I would be able to carry babies. I am a proud mother of a 28 year old daughter and a 23 year old son. I remember him fondly and only wished he hadn't moved to Orlando before my daughter was born!! His brother Jim took over my care and I too remmber him fondly. Thoughts and prayers to all.

Terri Winefordner

July 15, 2013

I'm so sorry to hear about Dr. Bowles. He was a wonderful doctor who treated the whole person with a sincere interest and a warm sense of humor. My husband had a deep respect for him as well. Our hearts go out to his family.

Kathy

May 13, 2013

Just heard the news today as it is time for my annual appointment. He was an amazing doctor. He took me on as a patient at 20 weeks pregnant due to the neglect of another doctor and I credit him to saving the life of my daughter.

Patricia Johnson

March 27, 2013

RIP to one of the greatest doctors ever who will be missed by many.

Thomas Carrasquillo

February 22, 2013

I just found out of Bob's death. We were classmates in Medical School and enjoyed great times together both off and on the golf course. I will keep him in my prayers as I will always cherish the time we had together.I am sorry that I never knew you were in Orlando since I have been practicing in the Fort Myers area for the last 33 years.
Tom Carrasquillo

Linda Larson

February 19, 2013

I also just found out about Dr. Bowles passing thru my new doctor. So sad to hear. He was a wonderful caring doctor.

February 18, 2013

I just found out about Dr. Bowles two days ago. I will keep the family in my prayers. He was, by far one of my favorite doctors. He was kind- spirited, patient, caring and professional He delivered my little angel in 1992. He is missed by many. Patricia J. and Maria M.

December 15, 2012

Have a great Birthday in heaven. You will always be remembered.
Cathy Senior

Sabrina Horne

December 14, 2012

I was sadden to hear that Dr. Bowles had lost his battle. He was an amazing Doctor! He delivered my daughter . He will always be remembered!! Thoughts and Prayers are with his family, friends and co workers!!!

Maria Diaz

October 17, 2012

I just found out thru another Dr & my heart is so broken right now. I'm in tears. Dr Bowles was an Amazing & Brilliant man. So caring. I will miss him terribly. When I had an issue & it didn't even have to deal with OB/GYN, he would call a buddy, Dr friend & I would be seen the next day!! He would laugh & say he caught them playing golf & I would think how lucky I was to have such a caring,loving Dr to get hook-ups with specialists with a snap of his hand. There will never be anyone like him :( My condolences to his family.

Taleya

October 1, 2012

I will always remember how wonderful of a doctor you were. You truly cared about your patients. RIP Dr. Bowles!

John McKinney

October 1, 2012

I knew Bob for over 45 yrs. We went to college together; were fraternity brothers and close friends. "Booker" was his nickname as he studied so hard to achieve his profession. I will reflect on the many fond memories.

Diane Augustine

October 1, 2012

I am so sorry to hear of Dr Bowles he was my Doctor in Wheaton and always my favorite!

Teresa Atwell

September 6, 2012

I just found out and am very saddened. Dr Bowles was my doctor for many years until his retirement at Physician Associates. He was always very caring and helpful . He will be well remembered. My thoughts and prayers go to the Bowles family with love.

Annette Scott

August 30, 2012

I just found out, I thougth he was the best.

Dalelynn Johnston

August 21, 2012

Dr. Bowles was a wonderful man, and doctor. He was so kind to my daughter during her difficult delivery.
He has been my doctor for many years, I will truly miss him.

Cathy Senior

August 18, 2012

Dr. Bowles was my employer for over 10yrs.He helped me in so mamy ways over the years.He was a wonderful teacher and role model for everyone."He made me a better nurse"He will be missed but never forgotten.

Tara Godinho

August 17, 2012

I am so sad to hear the news on Dr. Bowles' passing. He was a tremendous Dr who brought both of my children into this world. He always took his time and made each of my pregnancies a great experience. He will truly be missed.

jennifer ashby

August 17, 2012

Dr. Bowles was a friend and mentor to me. He will forever be in my heart.

Beverly Steiger

August 16, 2012

To the Bowles family...You have our deepest sympathy and continued prayers for the loss of such a wonderful man. He wasn't just a doctor, he was a friend. He was always concerned about me as a whole person (including my family) and not just as a patient. We laughed and cried through some tough moments. He was my doctor for over 20 years and will be missed by many. He had a wonderful sense of humor and asked about my husband's golf game all the time. I imagine he is playing better golf now than he did here. He was loved by many and will be missed. Sincerely, Beverly Steiger (and family), Maitland, FL

Two of the many blessing Dr. Bowles had a hand in bringing into this world.

Renee Watts

August 16, 2012

Dr. Bowles was a dear man, friend, and the man who brought both of my sweet children into the world. His calm expertise guilded me through my pregnancy as though we were family. My heart is saddened that the world lost such an amazing and positive practitioner, father, and man. Heaven is indeed a more special place with the addition of this man's spirit and love.
Much love to all the family for your loss,
Renee Watts

Billy Gunner

August 16, 2012

Mary Anne and family, so sad to hear about Bob. He will always be in my memmory. If there is anything that you may need please do not hesitate to contact me. Trust in the Lord. Peace. Billy Gunner

Tony & Carol Vaughan

August 14, 2012

Mary Anne,

Our hearts are hurting with the sad news of Bob's death. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the girls. There are absolutely no words we can say that will help you in this terrible time of grief. We only hope it will help in some small way for you to know we are praying for you. The Lord obviously needed a wonderful doctor, great golfer and fantastic friend when he decided to take Bob from us.

Please call us sometime when things settle down for you. 352 - 568-8774.

Tony & Carol Vaughan

Chris & Reggie Deaton

August 14, 2012

If a man is remembered by his good deeds, then our friend Dr. Bowles will never be forgotten.

Karen Miller

August 14, 2012

I met Dr. Bowles at the grand opening of Physician Associates in Maitland in 1985 and we was my physician since that time. A kind, thoughtful and skilled physician. He will be greatly missed by his patients, friends and family. May his family find great comfort in knowing how much of a positive impact he had on so many lives. Truly a life well lived.

Cindi Brau

August 14, 2012

Dr. Bowles was a wonderful man and doctor. It is hard to believe he is not still with us as he was such a presence for so long and had a positive impact on so many people. He will be greatly missed. May God grant his family peace and comfort.

Ben, Sarah and Haley

Kristy Harper

August 14, 2012

Dr. Bowles delivered all three of my children from my 23 year son, my 20 year old daughter and my 3 year old daughter. He was a beloved family friend. He will be missed by everyone as he touched so many lives. Kristy H.

Jennifer Cook

August 13, 2012

Dr. Bowles was my OB/Gyn from the time I moved to Altamonte Springs in 1998 until his retirement. He was the OB who delivered my precious son in 2001. I believe whole heartedly that my dear son would not be with us today had it not for the skill, care and dedication of Dr. Bowles. God Bless him and God Give strength to his family.

Jeanne DeBeer

August 13, 2012

Mary Anne, I send you my love and prayers on the passing of Bob. I'm still trying to wrap my head around this. I have so many fond memories; when you and I met Bob for the first time at the dance at U of I. and standing up for you and Bob at your wedding among others. I wish I could be there for you, but know you're in my heart. My deepest condolences to your family.

Love to all.
Jeanne

August 12, 2012

Mary Anne, I send you my love and prayers on the passing of Bob. I'm still trying to wrap my head around this. I have so many fond memories; when you and I met Bob for the first time at the dance at U of I. and standing up for you and Bob at your wedding among others. I wish I could be there for you, but know you're in my heart. My deepest condolences to your family. Love to all. Jeanne

August 12, 2012

My prayers go with the Bowles family on your loss. I had the pleasure of working with Dr. Bowles in the OR for many years at South Seminole Hospital. He was also my GYN doctor. He was kind, compassionate, patient, and a gentleman in every thing he did for his patients and staff in the hospital and is sorely missed. He was one of a kind and never without a smile!
Peace to all of you,
Ginny Freda

August 12, 2012

Mary Ann, family, we are so sorry.

John & Nancy Teague

Monta and David Becker

August 12, 2012

To all those in the Bowles family, and in particular, Mary Becker, sister of Robert. Our sympathies and dearest thoughts are with you all and we hope the wonderful memories of Robert will enrich your lives in the same way he lived life; with love, kindness and compassion.

August 11, 2012

Dr. Robert and Cori Posniak

Martha Tuohy Lasley

August 11, 2012

I am so sad to hear about Dr. Bowles. I loved working with him. He was so caring, calm, confident and skilled. He respected his patients and was a champion of the nurses.

Kerri

August 11, 2012

RIP Dr Bowles! He made my second son's birth a wonderful experience! He always spoke so lovingly of his family!

Pam Provancher

August 11, 2012

Dr. Bowles was my docotor for 24 years and he was a brilliant and kind man. His love for his family was amazing and it carried over to his work. He listened to every word and paid attention and found a rare clotting disorder in my daughter that would have been missed. I hoped he would retire and enjoy his family and golf for a very long time. My deepest sympathies to his family. God has a new angel to help with the healing in heaven.

Donna Lee Burt

August 11, 2012

May your faith give you the strength you need at this difficult time and may the love and memories of family and friends give you comfort.

Dr. Bowles was my Dr. for over 12 years and his sincere caring and expert skills gave me great confidence. Since Dr. Bowles retired I do not have a gyn doctor. Perhaps at 77 I don't need one. My sincere condolences to all his family, professional associates, and friends.

Fran Mitchell

August 11, 2012

Mary Ann, El and I were sadden when we heard that Bob passed into the arms of our Lord. Our prayers go out to you and your family . Although it has been awhile since I saw Bob, he will be missed. He always greeted me as though we just saw each other. He always had that big smile and ask how life was treating us and how our Grand kids were doing.
Bob was a true friend to anyone he knew.

Fran & Eleanor Mitchell.

mak lacy

August 11, 2012

I only saw Dr. Bowles once before retiring and it was enough for me to be so grateful for his kindness to me. No other doctor can compare to his dedication and care. Blessings to his family.

American Heart Association

August 11, 2012

May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.

Judy McFall

August 10, 2012

Sincere Sympathy to your Family and Friends. It was a pleasure to work with such a brilliant Gentleman at South Seminole Hospital. Judy McFall, RN

Linda Erfourth

August 10, 2012

Dr. Bowles was a great doctor whom I had the priveledge of knowing since 1985. He was a devoted family man and was kind and compassionate in everything he did in life. In 2010, He saved my life by finding a carotid block during my yearly physical. I had surgery and it ended up being 99% blocked. I am so greatful to him for finding it when no one else did. He is now with his Heavenly Father and at peace! God be with his family in their grief and may it give them peace to know he is without pain with with his Heavenly Father!

Jon and Courtney Ruhff

August 10, 2012

Dr Bowles was, and is, the reason my wife and I could have our little boy Donovan. We also have another on the way because of his proactive approach. Thank you so much Dr Bowles for your passion and understanding that is typically missing from the medical field. When looking down on the world with God and the Angels, be sure to point and smile at our young family. We will always be grateful to you. We will always remember you.

Raziya Botee

August 10, 2012

Dr. Robert Bowles was a very good doctor and it was nice being under his care as a patient. I was missing him when he left the practice. our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. May his soul rest in peace . Amen.

Alice Berkley

August 10, 2012

Dr. Bowles was my gynecologist for over 10 years and he discovered I had uterine cancer in Feb.,2007. He was so concerned and made sure I was referred to one of the best surgeons at the Fl Hospital Cancer Institute, which was Dr. Holloway. I credit them both for saving my life. Rest in Peace Dr. Bowles.

Bibi Taylor

August 10, 2012

wow so sad about the loss this kind man. He was my doctor when I miscarried both my babies and he was so compassionate and encouraging for the future would hold. I was privilidged to see him during my prenatal visits during both my third and fourth pregnancies in (2010-2012)at his office in c/o dr Odom.
God bless his family and may confort and peace overwhelm them during this time.

Becky Godwin

August 10, 2012

Dr. Bowles will always have a special place in my heart. He was willing to allow me to have a VBAC when no one else would... and it happened to be that he delivered my daughter Leah on his birthday. He always went above and beyond for me, and treated all of his patients like family. He will be greatly missed.

Christi Lanphier

August 10, 2012

Dr Bowles did so much for me & my husband & went above & beyond the call of duty. He was with me through many heartbreaks & did everything in his power for me to have a baby. Unfortunately, by the time I had a successful pregnancy, he was not doing OB anymore, but he did still keep tabs on me. My baby boy was born on the day he retired. He took the time to call me at home the following week & congratulate me. He was definitely an amazing man & doctor. My thoughts & prayers are with his family.

Sam & Mary Ann McLeod

August 10, 2012

Maryanne,
Although he has found peace,we will dearly miss him.
Mary Ann and Sam McLeod

Angel Rosado

August 10, 2012

What an amazing man he was to all who knew him. He had such an awesome way with all of his patients!! He would always give each the time they needed. He delivered both of my children and many of my friends children. His family will remain in our thoughts and prayers...He will be missed greatly!!

Cheryl Hickman

August 10, 2012

I was so sorry to hear about Dr Bowles.
He was such a kind and wonderful man.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Cheryl Hickman

August 10, 2012

Maryann, Our thoughts and prayers surround you, Bob and your family. We will see you Friday. Until then, take care and know we are here if there is anything we can do. Marc and Cathy Bischof

August 10, 2012

Our sorrow and hearts go out to the Bowles family for their loss and our loss
of a dear dear friend.
Love, Jerry and Jerilynn Kahn

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