John R. Bowers

John R. Bowers, 66, of Norwich and formerly Morris, passed away on Thursday morning, December 11, 2025 in his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on September 14, 1959, in Norwich, a son of Glen and Aleen (Hoag) Bowers. He married Susan Melius on August 14, 1993. John served his country in both the United States Army and Navy.

He enjoyed his leatherworking, knifesmithing, hunting and was an avid movie watcher. He was a well-known carpenter, mechanic, and craftsman and was currently living in Norwich. He was a loving father and husband whose inspiration and creativity brought joy to those around him while making witty jokes along the way. John invented many machines around his home to help with both his smithing and chores. His smile brought people together while his knowledge helped shepherd those in need of guidance. John was an artist with a strange but refreshingly good spirited mind, coming up with ideas that many would never think of. He enjoyed fishing with his family and friends.

His life was full of laughter, even when he struggled through tough times. Both his body and spirit were strong-willed and persistent, striding through struggles that others would be hindered by. Though he may not have believed it, he had many friends, family, coworkers and more that deeply loved and cared for him. John was a selfless man that would help others, even at his own expense, because he knew it was the right thing to do. He always found peace of mind while doing his crafting or mowing his lawn. John loved the outdoors and nature itself, incorporating the beauty of it into his creations. He enjoyed sitting on his porch in the summer and visiting with friends and family, laughing, and having meaningful conversations. John was also proud of his Native American heritage and embraced it with his love of all things natural and part of the earth.

He was predeceased by his mother and father, Aleen and Glen Bowers and his two brothers, Donald and Lynn. He is survived by his wife, Susan; his son, Alexander; and his siblings, Glenda Ardon and Steve (Cyndy) Bowers. He is also survived by many nephews and nieces. There will be no calling hours. There will be a celebration of his life in spring of 2026.

Funeral arrangements were entrusted with the Wilson Funeral Home.