Richard "Dick" Bowes Sr.

Richard “Dick” Bowes, Sr., 85, of East Peoria, passed away on Tuesday, August 29, 2023, at his home. He was born in Berwyn, IL on February 21, 1938, to George and Louise (McElligott) Bowes. He married his wife of 64 years, Janet Laurent, in Lombard, IL on June 20, 1959; she survives. He is also survived by his son, Richard (Brenda) Bowes, Jr. of Peoria; his 2 daughters, Diana (Brian) Bowes Montigney of Wilmette, IL and Kimberly Bowes of East Peoria; his sister, Patricia Bamberger of Villa Park, IL; and 5 grandchildren, Cameron, Evan, Lauren, Alyssa, and Dylan. He was preceded in death by his parents and his twin brother, Ronald. The loss of his twin brother affected him deeply, and he missed him for these last 11 years. Rich was a beloved son, brother, husband, father and grandfather. He had a great sense of adventure and took his family camping all over the country. In his later years, he cherished time spent with his five grandchildren. He had an easy-going personality and a positive outlook on life. If he met you and talked with you, he treated you as his friend from that day forward. He was humble and never spoke of himself, but always pushed praise and support on others. Rich was a dedicated educator for over 25 years, serving several school districts as a special education teacher, principal, and substitute teacher. He was a member of the National Education Association, Illinois Retired Teachers Association, and was a past president of the Illinois Education Association. He also served in the National Guard. Rich was a faithful member of St. Monica Catholic Church in East Peoria and volunteered often as a Eucharistic Minister and serving for funeral masses. He was very involved with Cursillo, serving as a leader and was also a member of the Knights of Columbus. He was involved in the Boy Scouts of America, serving time in leadership positions with his son and later with his grandsons. Even though life took him out of Chicago, Rich was always proud of his Chicago heritage. He was an avid Bears and White Sox fan. A Funeral Mass will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 6, 2023, at St. Monica Catholic Church in East Peoria. Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service. Fr. John Steffen will officiate. After Mass, the family invites you to join them at the Parish Hall for Rich’s favorite meal…pizza. Private burial will be at Fondulac Cemetery at a later date. Gary Deiters Funeral Home & Cremation Services in East Peoria is assisting the family. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Monica Catholic Church or Cursillo. Online condolences may be left at www.GaryDeitersFH.com.

Richard "Dick" Bowes Sr.

February 21, 1938 - August 29, 2023