Gene Bowman

Bernard Eugene "Gene" Bowman passed away on September 15, 2025. He was 88 years old.

Gene was a great man. He loved and was truly devoted to his family. He was born in Galesburg, Illinois on September 2, 1937. After health issues with his sister, a decision was made by his parents to move to Tucson, Arizona where he then lived his life until his death. In 1956 he graduated from Tucson High School and then went to work at Hamilton Aircraft as a technician. He worked at Hamilton Aircraft building aircraft wings for several years until an opportunity came about to join the International Union of Operating Engineers of Arizona, IUOEA, as an apprentice heavy equipment operator. After apprenticeship he then became a heavy equipment operator and was a heavy equipment operator with the union for over 50 years.

After retirement with the IUOEA, Gene went to work for La Mesa RV of Tucson moving and delivering RV's and motorhomes to customers across the United States.

He was also an amazingly skilled craftsman, building and repairing various equipment in a fully equipped shop he had built at his home of which he was active in until his death. Throughout his life, he had a passion for studying history and reading. He also had a great sense of humor.

He raised three children: Lorri, Debbie and Kenny. He taught his children to have a good work ethic, be self-reliant and to develop a good sense of humor. More than all of those things, he truly loved his family.

His first wife, Patience "Anita" Bowman preceded him in death and passed away on September 19, 2000. He then married Rita French on March 17, 2004.

He is survived by his wife Rita, three children, Lorri Gloyd, Debbie Krenning, Kenny Bowman and two grandchildren, Steven Gloyd and Christopher Gloyd.

Dad you will be greatly missed. We loved you so, so much. Thanks for all you did.

A memorial service to honor Gene's life will be held on December 5, 2025, at

1:00 PM at Evergreen Cemetery in Tucson at Oracle Road and The Miracle Mile.