Robert J. Towler, 87, of Rock Island, passed away Friday, July 16, 2021, at UnityPoint Health-Trinity, Rock Island.

Born on December 26, 1933, Robert attended elementary and high school in Redwood Falls, MN. After serving in the U.S. Army in Germany during the Korean War, he attended and graduated from the University of Minnesota, majoring in Forestry. His work history includes the U.S. Forest Service in the Black Hills, Lake County Forest Preserve, the Des Plaines Park District, and the City of Rock Island as Chief Horticulturist. He was a member of the Rock Island Horticulture Club, Quad Cities Woodturners Club, and a founding member of the Quad City Botanical Center. He was an avid volunteer for both Living Lands and Waters and Keep Rock Island Beautiful.

Robert is survived by his wife, Dorothy; and children, Kathleen, Kent, Kerm, and Kurt.

There will be a Celebration of Life meet and greet at the Quad City Botanical Center Events Canopy on Thursday, July 22, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Inurnment will be in Rock Island National Cemetery, Arsenal Island at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, July 21. Those wishing to attend the inurnment should meet at Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory (3030 7th Ave., Rock Island) at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday to join the procession line before departing for the cemetery.