James M. Bowen

CUYAHOGA FALLS - Jim Bowen passed away on August 21, 2021, following a long courageous battle from complications of a stroke. Jim was born in Canton, Ohio on November 4, 1936, to Jim and Justine Bowen. He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Arlene Bowen; daughters, Cindy Thompson (Brian), Debbie Mottice (Craig); sons, Jim Bowen (Denise), Mike Bowen (Kathie); grandchildren, Jacqui Journey (Chris), Joe Cavanaugh (Carmen), Rick Cavanaugh, Mike Mottice (Andrea), Kelly Lynch (Ryan), Matt Mottice (Kristina), Maria Ross (Ty), Anthony Bowen (Emily), Anna Kiefer (Ryan), David Bowen, Daniel Bowen, Julia Bowen and 12 great grandchildren and another blessing on the way. Jim's family were members of St. John's parish in Canton where he attended grade school. He went on to Canton Central Catholic High School where he played baseball and basketball. It's also where he met his future bride. Jim had a life-long passion for baseball. He played collegiately for Ohio University winning a MAC Championship in 1958. He eventually hung up his cleats but not before giving his all in a Cincinnati Reds tryout. Jim was inducted into the Canton Baseball Hall of Fame. His competitive spirit would never dim. He loved playing golf, especially with his family. Jim was an avid fan of Cleveland sports teams and his St. Vincent - St. Mary Fighting Irish. Mostly, though, he loved watching his children play sports. He was a salesmen by trade, at first for others, but eventually for himself. Jim started in office equipment but eventually his entrepreneurial spirit took him into coffee and vending, photo shops, and health products. Jim finished his career selling commercial real estate and making new friends. He was aptly named the peddler by an employee. He worked hard and loved what he did. Jim loved his entire family very much and supported them in every way possible. Family gatherings were his favorite - 1 p.m. Sunday dinners and holidays was the standard. Family trips were always special. He dearly loved his brother-in-law, Tom and sister-in-law, Norma and the entire Farwick family having shared many memorable trips over the years. He especially enjoyed the annual family trip to Myrtle Beach and watching the grandkids' joy. Jim was blessed with many great friends throughout his life. Perhaps none more so than those of his euchre club, dinner club, breakfast group, neighbors and church family who cared for him during his weakest moments. Jim was dedicated to his faith. He held a deep passion for his parish and the catholic schools of his children. He was an active member of Immaculate Heart of Mary parish for 55 years where he served as a Eucharistic minister. He loved his Lord. The family wishes to thank Crossroads Hospice for their wonderful care. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, August 28th, at 11:00 a.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. The family will receive visitors preceding mass starting at 9:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Immaculate Heart of Mary Church or St. Vincent-St. Mary High School in Akron. (McGowan-Reid & Santos Chapel, FALLS)