Obituary of Robert Nelson Mowery

Robert Nelson Mowery passed away on his 62nd birthday, Sunday, April 23, 2017, surrounded by his family. He was a loving husband, son, grandson, brother, nephew, uncle and friend who will be missed forever. Robert was born in Sweetwater, Tennessee to parents Erb and Frances Mowery.  From the beginning, he was curious about everything, building incredible knowledge as he traveled the world. Robert was the life of the party and could endlessly enthrall people with his stories. He was a 1973 graduate of Clinton High School and his first career was operating Maxey's Boat Dock on Ft. Loudon Lake. Robert was a proud veteran having volunteered for service in the United States Army in 1973 and then selected to serve in the U.S. Army Security Agency. He also served as military police. He served one year stateside and three years in Europe. He was honorably discharged as an SP-4 in the Army Intelligence field in 1977. After his Army service, Robert became a Federal Agent with the NNSA for 26 years. During that time he worked in 46 states and was involved in National Security Operations in which he received several commendations and high achievement awards for his superb service.  He was proud to be active in the Fraternal Order of Police where he was a State Trustee and charter member of local lodge 03-F.  Robert was also Chairman of the FOP State Body Armor Grant Committee, which provided bullet proof vests free of charge to officers in need. He also served as a member of the FOP State Legal Aid Committee.  After his retirement, he continued to follow his interests. Robert loved his wife and family, fishing and hiking, reading, running and all University of Tennessee sports -- Go Vols! He was also a self-taught master chef and baker. He derived great pleasure in making sure the toys he gave the nieces and nephews were in perfect working condition by playing with them before he gave the gifts. Robert feared nothing and taught much. He may be gone but his influence will not die. Preceded in death by his grandmother Lucile Nichols, grandparents Clyde and Rosa Mowery. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Carolyn Mowery; his loving parents, Frances Nichols Mowery and Erb H. Mowery; sisters Vicki McKamey and husband Don, and Donna McPheeters; best friend from toddlers on, cousin Neal Mowery; nieces and nephews Michelle Bailey (Grant), Joe McKamey (Sarah), Joshua McPheeters (Chelsey) and Morgan McPheeters (Jake); great-nieces and great-nephews Kenzie, Eli, Micah, Ruby and Lucy; grandfather Ray Nichols; and many other loved family and friends too numerous to mention. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 29th at 4:00 p.m. with fellowship and food to follow at the Highland View Church of Christ, 138 Providence Road, Oak Ridge, TN 37830. Graveside service with Military honors will be on Wednesday, May 3 at 2:00 p.m. at East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery, 2200 East Governor John Sevier Highway, Knoxville, TN 37920.  In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to Highland View Church of Christ Food Pantry, Covenant Hospice Katerpillar Kids Camp (c/o Fort Sanders Foundation 865-531-5210), or the charity of your choice. Online condolences at www.cremationset.com