Howard Bowman

Howard "Dale" Bowman, 73, took his first breath on August 20, 1952, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, born to Howard and Margaret Bowman. When Dale was just two years old, the family moved to Texas so his father could pursue a life as a commercial fisherman-a path that would later shape Dale's own life.

Dale made his home in Seadrift for the next 71 years, where he raised his children and cherished his grandchildren and built a life deeply rooted in hard work and family. Following in his father's footsteps, Dale spent many years working on the bay, traveling up and down the Texas coast wherever the shrimp and oysters led him. The bay life was in his blood.

In 1988, Dale married the love of his life and true soulmate, Audrey Beaver. Their story began long before that day-Dale gave Audrey her very first pony ride when she was just 18 months old, a testament to a bond that was clearly meant to be. Together, they shared a life full of love, laughter, and adventure, especially enjoying cruises with family and friends, with Alaska being their favorite destination.

Dale had a deep love for the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing, and he proudly passed those passions down to his sons and grandsons. He also loved to dance. If you ever saw Dale near a dance floor, it wasn't long before he made his way out there to shake a leg with his wife or friends. He even took dancing lessons to get all the moves right.

Twenty-seven years ago, he left the bay life and began working for various contractors at Formosa. Starting as a helper, Dale worked his way up through dedication and determination, becoming a pipefitter, foreman, and supervisor. Ten years ago, never afraid to better himself, Dale went back to school to become a certified crane operator. Proof that it's never too late to grow.

Dale retired in May of 2025 with plans to travel, fish, and hunt alongside his wife, children, and grandchildren. But God had other plans. Surrounded by love, Dale took his first breath in Heaven on February 3, 2026, with his wife holding his hand as he left this earth for his eternal home in Gloryland.

Dale is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Audrey Bowman; his daughters, Heidi Bowman Sparkman of Victoria and Rachel Bowman of Port Lavaca; his sons, Justin (Judith) Bowman of Port O'Connor and Ethan (Mickenzi) Bowman of Bandera; and his cherished grandchildren: Sydney and Will Patterson; Ella and Elise Sparkman; Stephen and Blake Bowman; Andrew, Trevon, and Christina Ragusin; and Lincoln and Leighton Bowman. He is also survived by his brothers, Mickey Bowman and Allen (Jennifer) Bowman; his sister, Lesa (Tom) Chaney; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Margaret Bowman, and his nephew, Christopher Bowman.

A celebration of Dale's life will be held on Monday, February 16th, at 11:00 a.m. at Grace Funeral Chapel in Port Lavaca, Texas.

Thoughts and memories can be shared online at www.gracefuneralhome.net.

Arrangements and services under the personal care of Grace Funeral Chapel, Port Lavaca, 361-552-1705.