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Thomas Arthur Bowles

1930 - 2020

Thomas Arthur Bowles obituary, 1930-2020, San Luis Obispo, CA

Thomas Bowles Obituary

Thomas Arthur Bowles Thomas Arthur Bowles was born December 22, 1930 in Los Angeles, California, to Theodore and Florence McGrath Bowles, grew up in Glendale, California and passed away peacefully in his home on April 9 th . He met his wife Joan Irvin in 1952, they were married for 67 years. She proceeded him in death in August 2019. They moved to San Luis Obispo in 1955 for Tom to attend Cal Poly. He graduated and lived in San Luis Obispo ever since. He is survived by his sister Elizabeth Spurr McCoy, two children, John Bowles and Leslie Weaver, both local. He had 5 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren who all live in California. Tom and Joan bought property in Squire Canyon, built a home and moved there in 1964, where they have lived ever since. Tom was an active member of Alcoholics Anonymous. He got sober in 1985 and his wife Joan was an active member of Al Anon. Alcoholics Anonymous played a big part in his life. He called his fellow members "his people". He attended meetings regularly and was active in service. He would like to be remembered at Leffingwell Landing which was a special place to Tom and Joan. Tom donated to many non-profit organizations over the years. A memorial will be held later when gatherings will be able to occur.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Luis Obispo County Tribune on Apr. 15, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
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Mark Bradford

May 8, 2020

Tom and Joan were parents and in-laws of dear friends who were a joy to be around. I am saddened by his passing as both Tom and Joan were positive influences in my life and among the blessings that I count

April 21, 2020

Tom, I love you for always making me feel welcome a and we're interested in what was going on with me. Steve

Kitty Downey

April 20, 2020

My prayers to you John and Leslie. I'm grateful to have known Tom and Joan over many years. Their great love for each other and their family was inspiring.

Sherrie Fabricius

April 18, 2020

Rest in Peace Tom; back with your beloved wife Joan! My family was blessed to know your family for many years. Thank you John and Leslie for sharing your parents with us and for all you did for them in their last days. I pray for all your family to be at peace. Big huge hugs to you all.

April 18, 2020

I will miss Tom's great big laugh, his warm bear hugs and the way he focused on the important things in life. With all my love, Melody

Julie

April 17, 2020

Tom what a wonderful inspiration to all he met. Thank you for your love.

Dori

April 16, 2020

Well my friend you are finally with Joanie. I hope you are both enjoying many sunsets and quiet moments.Tom as you told me recently "it has been a good ride". I will miss seeing you " round the campus".

To John, Leslie and families they loved you all so much and were so proud of all of you. Thank you for sharing both of them with me. I miss them both.

April 16, 2020

We miss you Grandpa. So many memories out at the property. So glad you and Grandma are together again. Gone but not forgotten. So blessed to have lived so close. xoxo Lauren, Curtis, Callaway, and Parker

April 15, 2020

I am so sad to hear of Tom leaving us. I have known Tom for many years and he was one of the most loving and generous people I ever met. Everyone in AA loved Tom and we felt his love. Tom we will all miss you, but never forgotten.

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