Carl Gene Bowser

Carl Bowser, a beloved husband, father, gramps, friend, and coach, passed away on July 24, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love and mentorship. Born to Paul & Merle Bowser in Taloga, Oklahoma, on April 15, 1937, Carl called Bakersfield home for more than 80 years. His life was a testament to enduring friendships and unwavering dedication, as he gathered friends from every stage of his life-from William Penn Grammar School, Bakersfield High School, and Bakersfield College to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and beyond.

Carl's life was filled with football, family, & faith. From his earliest days, he was either playing or coaching the game he loved. He survived the Cal Poly plane crash of 1960, an event that marked his life but did not deter him from dedicating himself to the Bakersfield College Renegades. Carl began his coaching career at BC in 1967. From 1984 to 1994, as head coach, Carl would lead the Renegades to an 83-31-3 record including the 1988 National Title with a Potato Bowl victory over Fullerton College. The stories of the players he coached and the positive, life-changing impact he had on them remain a source of great pride and joy for his family.

Carl was recognized for his incredible success on and off the field with numerous inductions to Hall of Fames throughout California: Renegade Athletics HOF, Kern County Bob Elias HOF, BC Alumni HOF, Cal Poly Athletics HOF, Bakersfield High School HOF, & California Community College Athletic Association HOF. And in October 2023, the weight training room in the new Renegade Athletic Complex, was named The Carl Bowser Performance Enhancement and Training Facility in honor of Coach Bowser.

In retirement, Gramps' greatest joy was attending and cheering on his grandkids in their sports. From T-ball to college games, Gramps was always there, proudly supporting them. Family dinners on Sunday evenings were spent by the Santa Maria BBQ, rehashing Friday night's results and offering coaching and encouragement.

On weekdays, Carl could often be found on the golf course or in the gym at Stockdale Country Club. His summers were the highlight of his year, spent on the deck of his beach house in Carpinteria, where he would chat with every friend who walked by. Many of these visits would end on the patio with an ice-cold beer.

Carl's heart found its counterpart in Marian Irene Cossa, a beautiful Cal Poly co-ed whom he married in San Luis Obispo. Together, they shared 62 remarkable years filled with love, laughter, and the joy of raising a family.

Carl is survived by his cherished wife, Marian, and their four children: Julie Bowser Sanders, Robin (Doug) Houghton, Carla (Tom) Franconi, and Larry Bowser. Carl's legacy continues through his eleven grandchildren: Charlie (Kayla) Sanders, Christian (Laura) Sanders, Matthew Sanders, Jillian Houghton, Brianna Houghton, Dominic Frasch, Tessa Frasch, Gino Franconi, Jackson Bowser, Joseph Bowser, and Clara Bowser. He is also survived by his three great-grandchildren: Charlie Sanders, Kate Sanders, and Charlotte Sanders.

In the late 1980's, Carl was baptized into the Catholic faith under the guidance of Fr. Craig Harrison and his loving wife, Marian. He received Christ into his heart and knew great peace as he joined our Lord in Heaven.

A funeral mass celebrating Carl's life will be held on Friday, August 16, 2024, at 10:00am at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 12300 Reina Rd. Bakersfield CA 93312. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the BC Foundation c/o: Athletic Red Shield, 1801 Panorama Dr. Bakersfield CA 93305, honoring Carl's deep love for his Renegades.

A special thank you is extended to Dr. William Baker for his exceptional care, Jeff Chudy for his love & unwavering friendship, and Fr. Craig Harrison for his support and guidance. And finally to both Hoffmann Hospice & Around the Clock Care for their loving kindness as we journeyed through this final season of our Dad's incredible life.

Carl Bowser's life may have ended, but his spirit will continue to inspire and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him.