Jack Bowman Obituary

JACK BOWMAN Obituary Obituary for Jack Roland Bowman It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude that we announce the passing of Jack Roland Bowman, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, teacher, farmer, and cherished friend, who peacefully left this world on April 6, 2025 in Tekoa, Washington, at the age of 90. Born in Medicine Lodge, Kansas on August 24, 1934 to John and Rachel (Fitch) Bowman, Jack's early life was shaped by the quiet charm of Medicine Lodge, Kansas, where he developed a love for the outdoors and a curiosity about the world around him. His educational journey began in a one-room schoolhouse at Eagle Township School, where he graduated in 1948 after completing grades 1-8. He later graduated from Medicine Lodge High School in 1952, a pivotal year in his life that set him on the path to higher education. Jack attended Northwestern State College in Alva, Oklahoma, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in 1962. His academic journey continued at the University of Idaho in Moscow, Idaho, where he completed his Master of Natural Science in 1967. Jack was always a man of intellect and passion, driven to expand his knowledge and to pass that passion on to others. In 1954, Jack married his true love, Dorothy Wortman, in Alva, Oklahoma, beginning a remarkable partnership that would last until Dorothys passing on May 10, 2022. Together, they shared a deep respect for the land, a love of adventure, and an unwavering devotion to each other. In 1965, Jack and Dorothy made the bold decision to move to Tekoa, Washington, from Macksville, Kansas where they would raise their family and build a life full of memories and shared experiences. Jack worked for Texas Eastern Pipeline buildings home for pipeline workers out of high school. He worked as a roughneck on oil rig, taught High School in Macksville, Kansas, and then Tekoa, Washington until retirement after 31 years. Jack drove school bus on route and to events, senior class advisor and also coached Track. He farmed many acres of wheat, barely, peas and lentils and raised hogs. In the mid 90s, he planted 31,000 trees and "retired" the farm land with the help of the class of 1995. Jack was not just a farmer, but a man whose passion for the earth ran deep. His dedication to preserving the land and living in harmony with nature earned him the Archie Mills Memorial Landowner/Sportsperson Award in 2010, an honor that recognized his lifelong commitment to stewardship. As a proud member of the INWC, Jack earned the Outstanding New Member Award in 2007, which he received with the humility and grace that defined his character. Jack has a remarkable membership tier list, following of a Master Hunter, and was a Member of the Inland Northwest Wildlife council. An avid lover of the outdoors, Jack was a true adventurer. He was a dedicated hunter, fisherman, and rockhound, often spending his weekends exploring the wilderness, collecting treasures, and relishing in the beauty of nature. His love for the outdoors was only matched by his zest for motorcycling, where every ride was an opportunity to discover something new. Whether casting a line into a quiet stream or cruising down a dusty trail, Jack embraced the simple joys of life and made sure to share that joy with everyone around him. Above all, Jack was a devoted family man. He is survived by his two daughters, Chris (Mike) McCallum - Shady Valley, Tennessee, and Cathy Bowman of Tekoa, Washington, and his two beloved grandchildren, Brenna and Derek McCallum, who will continue his legacy of curiosity, exploration, and adventure. Jack was preceded in death by his loving wife, Dorothy, and his parents, John and Rachel Bowman and his brothers Don and Doug Bowman. Jacks spirit lives on in the stories he shared, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave to all who knew him. He believed deeply in the goodness of the world and worked tirelessly to nurture and preserve it for future generations. His memory will be forever cherished by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Jacks journey may have ended, but his legacy will continue to inspire and guide those who carry his love for nature, learning, and life itself. As he always said, 'The best adventures are those we share with the ones we love.' A Graveside Service will be held in his honor on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at 3:00 P.M. at Goldenrod Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a local conservation organization or nature reserve of your choicecauses Jack held close to his heart. Donations can also be placed to Tekoa Ambulance Fund, Volunteer Fire Department, or Gentiva Hospice. Kramer Funeral Home, Palouse, WA is caring for the family. On line condolences may be left at www.kramercares.com