Joe Robert Lowry

Joe Robert Lowry, 81, of Spring Bay, IL, passed away surrounded by his loving family at 1:11 pm on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at Carle Health-Proctor Hospital in Peoria, IL.

He was born on April 10, 1945, in Stockton, MO, to Francis E. and Freddie J. (McGuire) Lowry. He married Bette K. Stenger, the love of his life, on October 9, 1965, in Kickapoo, IL. They quickly started a family, and their nearly 61 beautiful years of life together were poured into loving their children and grandchildren well.

Surviving are his wife, Bette of Spring Bay, IL; daughters, Lisa Lowry of Peoria, IL and JoAnn (Kevin) Emery of Metamora, IL; grandchildren, Joe Force, Jonathan (Brittney) Lowry, Elizabeth (John) Samyn, and Miranda Emery; great-grandchildren, Hunter Force, Remington Force, Beau Force, Paxton Martin, Paisley Lowry, and Westen Lowry; and siblings, John Lowry of Tennessee and Jim Lowry of Washburn, IL. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Jack Lowry, and sister Lorell Anderson.

Joe was a U.S. Army Veteran who served during the Vietnam War. He became a Track Vehicle Mechanic and mastered his skills as a repairman. During his military service, Joe was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal 60 Device, and Vietnam Service Medal Sharpshooter (Rifle M-14). He took great pride in serving his country and was a lifetime member of the Spring Bay American Legion Post 1115. He counted it a privilege to participate in the Peoria Area Honor Flight. He was treated with the greatest respect during his trip to Washington DC, and upon his return, he received a hero's welcome home.

Joe's expertise as a machine repairman served him well in his rewarding career at Caterpillar Tractor Company. Upon his retirement in 1993, not being one who was content to hang up his tools, he went on to establish Lowry Mechanical Services. Everyone who knew him knew he could fix anything, and he was always up for the challenge of a temperamental machine. Sometimes it seemed as though his presence alone was enough to reform a stubborn mower.

Joe was also an avid outdoorsman. One way he bonded with his grandchildren was to include them in this passion. He took his grandsons deer hunting, and all the grandchildren had the opportunity to become familiar with a rod and reel with his guidance. He enjoyed participating in MonoCoeur Bass Masters, Fellowship of Christian Anglers (FOCAS), and Illinois BASS Federation State Championships (1996-98). His wall is adorned with trophies earned from fishing tournaments, but true to his heart to serve others, his most prized sporting accomplishment was fishing with members from the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA).

Whatever brought Joe delight was ultimately a way for him to bring joy to others. For example, after the purchase of his Corvette, he joined the Mid-Illinois Corvette Club in Peoria and participated in the St. Jude Peoria to Memphis Drive. This incredible parade of Corvettes on the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Campus was a highlight for him. He loved knowing that just the thrill of sitting in his cool car gave the children the gift of a brief escape from the reality of their health battles.

As a man of devout service to God, Joe was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Metamora. In 2002, he was ordained as a deacon at St. Mary's Cathedral in Peoria, IL. His wholehearted dedication to the church was exemplified by his personal relationships and investment in the lives of the congregants. He gave countless hours to engagement with various ministries including Knights of Columbus, Teens Encounter Christ (TEC), Cursillo, Prison Ministries, and Jaycees of Peoria.

Cremation rites have been accorded. Visitation will be held from 9:00 am - 10:30 am at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Metamora, IL on Saturday, August 22, 2026, with a Memorial Mass following at 10:30 am -11:30 am with Father David Kipfer officiating. A Celebration of Life will take place at noon at the Spring Bay American Legion in Spring Bay, IL where full Military Rites will be accorded. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, St. Jude Runs Office, 1320 W. Commerce Dr., Peoria, IL 61615. Online condolences may be offered at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.

DONATIONS:

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, St. Jude Runs Office, 1320 West Commerce Drive, Peoria, IL 61615