Robert “Bob” Bowers of Glendale Elks Lodge #1289 has been named Elks’ District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler for the Metropolitan District. A dinner party was held at the Glendale Elks Lodge on July 27 to celebrate his new position. Bowers became a member of Glendale Elks #1289 in 2002 and became Exalted Ruler in 2007. He was named a Jolly cork in 2007 and has been the district chairman for lodge activities, major project, and the Elks National Foundation. In 2010, Bowers was the state vice president for the Metropolitan District.

Bowers was born in St. Louis, M. on Aug. 6, 1942. After moving several times, the family settled in Glendale in 1955. Bowers attended John Muir Elementary, Roosevelt Junior High, and Glendale High School and on national championship baseball and basketball teams. He continued his education and received an A.A. degree in police science from Glendale College.

He joined the United States Marine Corps Reserve in 1962 where he attained the rank of corporal. He was honorably discharged in 1968.

In 1963, he married his childhood sweetheart, Melody. They lived in Glendale/La Crescenta, before moving to La Cañada in 1972 where they still reside. They have three children: Chantelle Huckman, Bret and Bart, and seven grandchildren. Their two sons and sons-in-law are members of the Glendale Elks Lodge. Melody’s grandfather was a 50-year member of the Glendale Lodge, joining in 1914.

Bowers joined the Los Angeles Police Dept. in 1963 and was promoted to detective. He served as a division representative for the L.A. Police Protective League. He retired as a Detective 2 after 27 years of service.

Melody is also retired and was a teacher. The couple still owns Valley Vista Preschool in Montrose, which is operated by their daughter-in-law Shelley.