John Charles Bowman

JOHN CHARLES ?JACK BOWMAN, 73, Rockford, died at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, May 1, 2008 in OSF St. Anthony Medical Center. Born April 11, 1935 in Belvidere, son of Edward Magnus and Mildred Elise Larsen Bowman. He lived the first 18 years of his life on a farm north of Poplar Grove and considered himself a farmer thoughout his life. He was a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps. Previously had been married to Barbara Marie Whippler and then to Donna Escue. Member of Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Jack attended various universities, receiving a bachelor of science degree from BYU and went on to earn 2 masters degrees from the University of Colorado and Colorado State University. He began his working career with NASA and in 1975 he retired from teaching science and math in Cherry Valley School and then Roosevelt School. He was a licensed pilot who loved to fly and ride his Harley, but the biggest love in his life was always his family. Jack will always be remembered for his wisdom, love of learning and his vast knowledge. He had a very positive outlook on life and was loved by everybody that knew him. Survivors include his children, Charles Edward Bowman, Taylor Ridge, IL, Alanna Re (James) Bowman-Dorfsmith, Cherry Valley, Lorenda K. (Jeff) Stalkfleet, Winnebago and Elysia Gayle (Ken) Gaines, Winnebago; grandchildren, John Bowman, Erik Bowman, Destiney (Marc) Bagarinao and Austin Martin; great-granddaughter, Jocelyn Bagarinao; sister, Karen (Ron) Winebrenner; nieces and nephews; previous wife and mother of his children, Barbara Bowman-Taylor; sister-in-law, Carol A. Bowman; daughter-in-law, Pamilia Bowman and many close beloved friends. Predeceased by his parents and his brother, S. Clay Bowman. A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 7, 2008 in Fitzgerald Funeral Home amp; Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. The Conductor will be Elder Peter Lundquist. Burial in Livingston Cemetery. Visitation from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday and from noon until time of the service on Wednesday. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Christian Life Retirement Home. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.