Benjamin C. Lowery

Benjamin Lowery, age 69 of West Branch, passed away November 17, 2009 at West Branch Regional Medical Center. Ben was born to Benjamin and Anna Lowery in Flint on January 14, 1940. He graduated from Beecher High School in 1958. He married the former Mary Jacobi on May 13, 1961 in Flint. Ben loved fishing, boating, hunting and working outside. He was a member and devoted Optimist, past President of the West Branch club, chairman of the Oratorical Contest and served as Governor of the Michigan District of Optimists from 1999 to 2000. He was a member of St. John Lutheran Church, serving as head Elder, Choir Director, property director and past president of the church council. He was past President of the Walter League, past member of the JayCees of West Branch and Mt. Morris, holding all offices and was the fire chief of the Wildwood Fire Department. Ben retired from Vic Bond Sales in 2004 after 35 years of service. He loved being a grandfather and spending time with his grandson. Ben is survived by his wife Mary, his son, Benjamin C. Lowery III, both of West Branch and grandson Benjamin D. (Katie) Lowery of Washington. Also surviving is his sister, Brenda (Hap) Ashley of Flint, his brother in law, Henry (Nancy) Jacobi of Clio and several nieces and nephews. Visitation at the Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch will be held on Friday, November 20, 2009 from 5-9 p.m. and Saturday from 12-9 p.m. The Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 22, 2009 at St. John Lutheran Church in West Branch. Rev. Howard Travis will officiate with burial following at Edwards Township Cemetery. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Optimist International Foundation or to the St. John Lutheran Church building improvement fund.