Peter James Bowman

Peter James Bowman, age 78, of Gresham, Wisconsin started his journey to the spirit world on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at sunrise in Shawano, Wisconsin and surrounded by his loving family.

Pete was born November 19, 1946, in Shawano, Wisconsin to the late Morris Rupert and Hazel Marie (Kessen) Bowman. He grew up among many family, friends, and fellow Stockbridgers in Morgan Siding and attended the one-room schoolhouse there. In later years, he attended Gresham School where he graduated. Following graduation, Pete was drafted to the US Army. Pete held numerous roles over his professional life carrying on the Bowman tradition of entrepreneurism including owner of Pete and Kathy's Country Bar, owner of Blue Sky Logging, and a crane operator for Spancrete where he was a proud member of Operating Engineers Local 139 Union. He also served on the Stockbridge-Munsee Tribal Council. His love for long drives in his blue truck and a bottomless cup of coffee carried him through his retirement years.

Those who knew Pete will remember him for his quick wit, sweet nature, and countless Petey-isms including, "Watch out for #1, and don't step in #2; Dewey, Cheatum, and Howe; whatever Ma don't know ain't worth knowing; don't go away mad, just go away," among many others. We hope you remember the smile on his face, wave of his hand, wind in his hair, and a beep of his horn as he drove past your home.

Pete was married to Kathleen Kahl for 28 years, a union that blessed them with four children. After their marriage, they shared a loving friendship and remained dedicated co-parents and -grandparents. In his later years, Pete shared his life with his longtime companion, the late Mary Hanson. They spent more than two decades enjoying each other's company, each other's families, and many trips together around the country.

Pete was a proud father [noox] and will be lovingly remembered by his children: Dr. Anthony James (Sheryl) Bowman of Milwaukee, WI; Dr. Nicole Renee (Dave) Bowman-Farrell of Shawano, WI; Erin Kate Bowman of Bayside, CA; and Alison Marie (Martín) Bowman of Madison, WI. He is survived by his cherished grandchildren [nooxwiisak], Evan Ne-pa Bacon, Sienna Ahjinakwe Salas, Seneca Odayin Stone Salas, and Saia Nagweyaabiin Salas, who brought him great joy. He is also survived by his beloved sister, Bonnie Louise Maas of Bowler, WI. He leaves behind numerous nephews, nieces, godchildren, cousins, and other relatives and friends who shared his joyful and rugged spirit.

Pete was preceded in death by his parents, Morris and Hazel; his longtime companion, Mary Hanson; his sister, Joan Marie Rosenow; and his brothers-in-law, Roger E. Rosenow and Sidney Lawrence Maas, Jr. – all of whom he loved dearly.

A celebration of Pete's life will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at the St. Francis Solanus Catholic Church in Gresham with a meal to follow. The family will receive loved ones from 9:30 am until the time of service at the church. To honor Pete's loving spirit, please consider wearing your favorite flannel. A graveside burial with military honors will be conducted by Mohican Veterans and held at St. Francis Solanus Catholic Cemetery on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 1:00 pm.

The family would like to say xwat anushiik (deepest appreciation) to the many medical staff and caregivers who supported him and the family throughout Pete's life and beyond, especially the Stockbridge-Munsee Tribe and community members. In honor of Pete's memory, please consider donating to the Gresham Scholarship Fund in Mary Hanson's name, or the Stockbridge-Munsee Historic Preservation Office.