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Richard Bowers Obituary
TAMPA - Richard "Dick" Bowers, whose leadership helped to build the athletic programs at the University of South Florida during their formative years and who threw himself into charitable endeavors since then, died unexpectedly this morning. He was 77 years old and he died with his wife of 48 years and two children at his side.
Bowers of Temple Terrace was athletics director at USF from 1963 through 1982, but later made a name in the community as an instrumental fundraiser for several area charities. Most prominent among them is the Gold Shield Foundation, which raises money for families of fallen police officers and firefighters in seven West Central Florida counties.
The cause of death was an aneurism, said Bowers' son, Rick. It happened at home. When paramedics arrived, Bowers was unresponsive. They rushed him to University Community Hospital, where doctors were able to re-establish a pulse, but ultimately could not save him, his son said.
"His life was full," Rick Bowers said this afternoon. "He enjoyed playing golf and he went to all the sporting events around town. He helped start the USF football team 11 years ago and he went to all those football games."
Bowers' widow, Madge, said, "He was like the guy on the white horse. He was fantastic, a total southern gentleman. He was the best husband and the best father ever. He was just a marvelous person. He really cared more about everybody else than himself.
"He had a favorite quote: 'You can do an awful lot of good in the world if you don't care who gets the credit,' and Dick never wanted credit for anything."
Gold Shield Executive Director Joe Voskerichian said the news of Bowers' death was devastating.
"We lost a great friend," Voskerichian said just three hours after hearing of the sudden death of his friend of some 30 years. "He was a great friend to the community and to me, Gold Shield and the university.
"You wouldn't want any more of friend than him," he said, choking back tears. "He will be dearly, dearly missed."
Voskerichian met Bowers when Bowers was athletics director at USF and Voskerichian was collegiate umpire and basketball referee.
The two remained close after their respective careers ended and both threw their efforts into local charities. Bowers, president emeritus of Gold Shield, and Voskerichian were charter members and among the first slate of officers of the foundation.
"Dick and I went to the funeral of a friend just this past Monday," Voskerichian said. "We talked two to three times a day." The two last spoke late Wednesday about the Gold Shield Foundation's annual fundraiser, and Bowers was excited about booking Joe Girardi, newly hired manager of the Tampa Bay Rays, as the keynote speaker.
Besides his wife and son, Bowers is survived by his daughter, Delisa; two grandchildren, Casey and Carissa Alfonso; and his sisters, Alberta Frank and Kathryn Henry.
Bowers was a retired U.S. Army captain and graduated with bachelor's and master's degrees in physical education from the University of Tennessee. He received his doctoral degree in education from Vanderbilt-Peabody College.
He taught at King College in Bristol, Tenn., where he met his wife, and both traveled to Burma to teach at the University of Rangoon on a Fulbright scholarship. He then taught at Shepherd College, in Shepherdstown, W.Va., before moving to Connecticut to teach at Central Connecticut State University.
In 1963, Bowers moved to Tampa, where he assumed the USF athletics director position and held it for 19 years. He resigned that post to become the director of development in the university's college of business, a position he held until his retirement four years ago.
But retirement for Bowers was anything but idle. He became the director of development at the Museum of Science and Industry and also assumed the leadership role in the Gold Shield Foundation.
In lieu of flowers, mourners are asked by the family to send donations to either the Gold Shield Foundation or the Richard T. Bowers Scholarship at USF's College of Business.
Richard "Dick" Bowers
Born: Aug. 8, 1930 in Nashville, Tenn.
Died: Nov. 29, 2007, in Tampa.
Survivors: Wife of 48 years, Madge; daughter, Delisa; son, Rick.
Funeral arrangements: A viewing is scheduled at Blount & Curry Funeral Home Terrace Oaks Chapel, 12690 N. 56th St., Temple Terrace from 5-8 p.m. Sunday. The funeral service will begin at 11 a.m. Monday at the Temple Terrace United Methodist Church, 5030 E. Busch Blvd.
Reporter Keith Morelli can be reached at (813) 259-7760 or [email protected].
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Bowers
Bill Dodds
November 1, 2018
Richard was always a good friend to all he knew. I enjoyed playing sports with Richard at Nashville East High and UTenn. Bill Dodds
Karen Samuels
January 10, 2010
It is January 10, 2010, and I just found out that Dr. Bowers has died. I am so saddened by this. Dr. Bowers was an angel. Every time I saw him, he had a smile on his face and kindness in his heart. He held a warm regard for everyone - no matter his or her job at the College of Business Administration. I knew him for a short while only while working there in the Dean's Office from February 2001 to May 2002. But I loved him. He was like that - instantly lovable. Since I left COBA, I have thought of him often and occasionally have had the opportunity to talk about him and how charming and delightful he was. How kind he always was to me! I always meant to find him again - just to say hello and thank you. He was magical. I am so sorry that I never kept in contact with him. Thank you for everything Dr. Bowers. I know you can hear me. And the warmest regards to your family.
Janelle Ratti Lucas
December 14, 2007
My deepest sympathy to the family of Dr. Dick Bowers. During my 30+ year tenure at USF, Dr. Bowers was well known and loved by all ... always had a hug or pat on the back for everyone. The Tampa Bay area will miss his smile and warmth.
Donna Francis
December 10, 2007
To the Bowers Family,
I had the extreme pleasure of meeting Dr. Bowers when I worked in the Development Department at MOSI (from 2000 to 2004). To me, he was the epitome of the consummate gentleman. I could write paragraphs about him, his wonderful qualities, and about things he did to help me personally at my job, as well as things he did to assist me when I was affiliated with the Kiwanis Club of Tampa. I was so saddened to learn that he has passed. He will be deeply missed by many, not only in Tampa.
I extend my deepest and heartfelt condolences to you all. May it help you to know that so many loved him.
Shirley Lightfoot
December 7, 2007
Dear Madge, Ricky and Delisa,
Memories keep those we love close to
us forever.
We are very blessed to have known Dick.
I do not ever rememember seeing him
without a great big smile and he always had kind words for everyone.
He will never be forgotten.
My Deepest Smypathy.
Shirley
Bob and Judy Gordon
December 6, 2007
Please accept our deepest sympathy. Our hearts and prayers are with the family. We will miss Dick's friendly smile and wave as he got his mail or got into his car.
Lucille Hamilton
December 6, 2007
Dear Mrs. Bowers and Family.
My name is Lucille Hamilton (Charlie Hamiton) live on Linbanks Place and I met your husband on my walks down 113th. I didn't know him very well but I wanted you and your family to know what a sweet person he was. I always enjoyed our little visits when we would pass or if he came down our street. I often told him how much I loved your house and he told me all about it. I remember seeing you both on the 4th of July at a party on Druid Hills and told my husband how cute you both looked together. He also was so nice to the lady with the walker ( forgot her name) I would see them walking and chat then I would walk with her when he would come home. I felt so bad when I saw the obit in the paper and wanted to come over to give my sympathy to you and the family but it's still hard for me since I lost my Dad 10 yrs ago and now my Mom just a few short months ago. I will miss seeing him and may God give you his strengh and love. God Bless
Alma and Walker Land
December 5, 2007
Madge,Delisa and Rick.We were very shocked and saddened to learn of Dick's death. Alma and I remember well the many visits we had there and the good times we enjoyed during those visits. I also remember the walks and discussions Dick and I had during these
visits. He is in a better place now after a wonderful and productive life in which he helped many people.If we can do anything to help during these times please let us know. Remember we love you and will always be here for all of you.
BOB L. ANDREWS
December 5, 2007
Dear Madge
Jackie and I will always hold Dick and you in our thoughts and prayers . We will remember him as our High School class President , but most of all as a friend . Dick was scrimmaging in High School against me a poor defensive lineman when my arm was broken from a hit from him and I remember him always because of his concern . We will never forget our later association while Jackie and I were at South Florida Seminars and his interest always in others.
Bob and Jackie Andrews-Hendersonville Tennessee
Mona Land
December 5, 2007
I will always remember our vacations, when we were little and came to visit in Floirda to see you all and Uncle Dick. I still tell others about these happy times, like the ride in the huge RV when we went to see your friends with the swimming pool in the shape of the Eagle. Those were wonderful times and our loved ones live on in those memories. Uncle Dick is with GOD and does not want those to be sad as he is in heaven. You all are in my thoughts and prayers. With Love MONA
Susan Welsh
December 4, 2007
Mr. Bowers was the first person I had contact with at USF and he ws instrumental in my involvment all these years. What a great leader and friend.
Haden & Cathy Jo Land
December 4, 2007
Aunt Madge, Delisa and Rick,
We hope that you may find comfort in your family memories. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all in this time of sympathy. May God bless all of you, keep you close and give you strength. With our love,
Me, my wife, Giulia, and our son, Jonathan-Battista
Greg Chapman
December 4, 2007
In 1987, when I was a sophomore at USF, Ron Sherman introduced me to Dr. Bowers as part of my volunteer work on the Student Foundation (or “the Gold Council”), which Ron, Dr. Bowers, and I (and many others) worked together to create; though I’m sure it wasn’t lost on Ron that Dr. Bowers and I were also brothers of the same fraternity, Sigma Chi. Of course, at first, as a young student, I was more than a little intimidated by Dr. Bowers – the Director of Development for the College of Business. But Dr. Bowers never let “that” get in my way. His generosity, his humor, his patience, and perhaps, above all, his giant sense of empathy for everyone he encountered (including me) impressed upon me valuable insights which continue to enrich my life. Over the years, since graduating from USF, I am very proud to say that I had the privilege to continue to build a meaningful friendship with Dr. Bowers – who would always take time to take me to lunch whenever I returned home - and, who has, in no uncertain terms, helped to shape the man, the husband, and the father I am today - and to know that life is really made of the little things we do (for each other)... because there's nothing any bigger. Dr. Bowers, you will always be with me.
Tom Sprenger
December 4, 2007
Dick Bowers was the right man at the right place at the right time for USF. It was 45 years ago when I first met Dick. My wife and I appreciate the kindness he extended to our son and daughter-in-law when they were students at USF.
Kelly Stuart Williams
December 3, 2007
Dearest Family and Friends of Dr. Bowers: Today we gathered together at Dick Bowers' funeral to celebrate the life of a dear man, who could not have fathomed the numbers of lives he touched, inspired, coached, and challenged. I came to work at USF with Dick in 1990, when I was a new graduate student at USF. I was new to Tampa; new to financial development, and I was a relatively new mother: clueless in all regards. As he did with so many, Dr. Bowers took me under his wing and taught me the magic of his "friend raising" techniques in USF's College of Business Administration. Dick essentially adopted my family(it may have helped that we played golf and were from Tennessee)--and he introduced us to his wealth of friends throughout USF and Greater Tampa Bay. As one of Dick's many development "trainees", I have spread his "gospel" of "friend raising" as I have since been a national trainer to non-profits and public school districts in over 50 communities across the US. In this way, I think of Dr. Bowers as a fundraising "prophet" of sorts. He inspired so many of us who have gone on to teach others:fundraising "evangelists." The amount of resources that Dick Bowers brought to bear to so many charitable initiatives is beyond the imagination. The influence of his life, his work, and his love goes on. He will truly live on in our hearts and through our work. I'll never forget whenever I was even two minutes late to work in the morning, Dick would say, "Did you bring the afternoon paper with you?" When I pulled into the church parking lot 45 minutes early this morning, I can remember thinking...I sure wish Dick were here to see how he influenced my punctuality! May God continue to bless you as He has blessed so many of us who knew Dick. Thank you for sharing him with us. Bill C., Dabney, Dallas, Darienne, and Kelly Stuart Williams.
Bill King
December 3, 2007
I met Dr. Bowers when he first came to South Florida. I was in the charter class at USF in Physical Education. My thoughts and prayers will be with the family in this time of sorrow. I am sorry I did not get to go to the funeral services, I just got the email today. Please except my sincerest condocences and let me know if I can do anything for the family.
debbie doliner
December 3, 2007
Dick was MOSI CIRQLE's greatest friend, and he became one of mine. He was my "miracle worker," during the planning of CIRQLE events. With every hurdle, his motto was: "We'll do it!" And he always came through. He was a wonderfully kind gentleman. I will miss him terribly. To Dick's family, MOSI CIRQLE expresses their deepest condolences for your loss.
Lois and B Lott
December 3, 2007
Dear Madge,Delisa, and Rick:
How saddened we are to hear of Dick's passing. We will always remember him during the days of our kids in school and always supporting their endeavors. We all send our love and prayers,
Lois and B Lott, and Melissa, who sends a special prayer for you, Ricky.
Bob Alwood
December 3, 2007
As a member of the charter Class at USF I only knew Dr. Bowers for a year. But as a Physical Education major I could see that USF athletics were in good hands.
Jim & Ina DeMay
December 3, 2007
Dear Rick, Delisa, and Mrs. Bowers.
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time. Let us know if you need anything.
Richard Pack
December 3, 2007
Dick came to USF my senior year, we had many associations, however the two I remmber the most was his pitching on our 7 UP fast pitch softball team which was in the Metro leagure in Tampa and our relationship as officers in the Florida National guard.
USF will never fill his shoes.
I will never be able to give him the golf match I promised him at the Bradenton CC.
Murphy and Janice Osborne
December 3, 2007
Dick was a natural leader and a friend to all who were worthy of friendship. He was appreciated by his peers and was known for his positive attitude and his integrity. Some people are friends regardless of time, circumstance and distance. Dick was such a person.
Dave Lichtenfels
December 2, 2007
I also arrived at USF in 1963. While not at all connected with USF Athletics, I knew Dr. Bowers within the first 4 months. Truly USF's best ambassador. In Heaven there is peace and rest.
Vera Martin
December 2, 2007
I offer my deepest sympathy and love to Madge and family for the loss of Dick. I had the opportunity of knowing and working with Dick for over twenty years. He was a gentleman and a gentle man. He never forgot a face or a name, he made everyone feel special.He remembered your family members and always asked about them. His always ready smile and the great bear hugs will be missed. He was a big asset to MOSI, USF and the community. Madge, may you gain strength for each day ahead knowing that so many people loved and cared for Dick. We are all sending you our love and support.
Curt Lutz
December 2, 2007
Dick Bowers was one in a million!
"A good man, a mentor and a friend."
Tara and David Puigdomenech
December 2, 2007
Dr. Bowers was always a true gentleman. His wit and wisdom will surely be missed by everyone. He was always a pleasure to be around. His special dance at our wedding will a memory we will always cherish.
Ed Langer
December 2, 2007
Please accept my deepest sympathies. While this is a time for sorrow, it is also a time to see the full fruit of Dr. Bowers' deeds on Earth. He positively impacted so many lives over his many, many years of community, educational and fraternal service.
I am another lucky man for having met and worked with Dr. Bowers. I met him as an undergraduate at USF, worked with him on the Sigma Chi Housing Corporation and was lucky enough to play two golf scrambles on "Team Bowers" with he and Rick.
He portrayed all the attributes we hope to see in all leaders - integrity, wisdom, fairness, dedication as well as inspiring those around him to reach higher and achieve more on their own.
Dr. Bowers was also a link to my mother's past. They both attended University of Tennessee at the same time.
The world could do a lot better with more people like Dr. Bowers, we will have to reach within ourselves to meet the void he leaves.
In hoc,
Ann Leech Luna
December 1, 2007
Dear Madge, Delisa, and Rick, My what a shock to read about Richard in the Sports Section of the Tennessean yesterday morning. To our family, he was never "Dick," but Richard, or Richie, and we loved him, his sisters, his brothers, and his most wonderful mother, who reared him to be the gentlemen he was. Each of these cousins has been a special person in my life.. Dan and I are sorry we can't be with you at this time, but our prayers will be with you. I've been so proud of Richard and his accomplishments. Love, Ann (I think he always called me Ann Elizabeth!
Davian Benito
December 1, 2007
My family has been the donors of the Louis Benito Endowed Schlorship at the COBA school at USF. I looked forward every year to seeing Dr. Bowers at the Annual COBA Schlorship Luncheon. Please accept my deepest sympathy for your loss. I am sure that Dr. Bowers has already found my parents in Heaven. May he rest in peace in the loving arms of the Lord.
John Lott Brown
December 1, 2007
Dick Bowers was a fine member of the faculty at U.S.F. Our sympathy goes to Madge and family.
Marsha Jarrett
December 1, 2007
Dr. Bowers was a very special man. He always had a smile and many kind words for our family. We will miss seeing him on his evening walks around the neighborhood. We will always appreciate his patience with my boys and their friends during their many roller hockey games that seem to always end up in his driveway. What a fine gentleman he was!
David, Marsha, Jordan, Joshua and Tanner Jarrett
Esther Forsberg
December 1, 2007
Dear Madge, Rick and Delisa - This is to express my sorrow in the loss of your husband and father.
Dr. Bowers was my boss at USF in the Athletic Department for almost 18 years and was truly the most supportive, dedicated, kind, and thoughtful person anyone could have worked for. His integrity during those years was of the highest qality.
The years spent working for him will never be forgotten.
Your family has my love and prayers.
Dan Raulerson
December 1, 2007
Dear Friends and Family,
I had the honor of working closely with Dr. Bowers for many years on the Sigma Chi housing project.
He was a man of honor, integrity, hope, and love. He inspired many during his life and his spirit will
continue to inspire many in the future.
To know him was to be blessed.
God bless you, Dick.
In Hoc,
Alice Tackett-Dalena
December 1, 2007
I am sorry for your loss. I first met this wonderful man after my husband was killed in the line of duty. He brought a check to me from the Gold Shield Foundation and told me they would help pay for my college if I wanted to return to school. I am happy to say, that is why I am a nurse today, because Dick Bowers came to see me that day and offered his support throughout my college days. Your family is in my prayers.
Eileen Weigle
December 1, 2007
Dr. Bowers was my PE teacher at USF in the mid 60's. In the recent years we reacquainted at the Greco track as I walked with friends. He was part of the regulars and I loved to hear about his years at USF, his family, and his volunteer efforts. I loved his positive outlook and he shall be missed. Enjoy your heavenly walk Dr. Bowers.
Eileen Weigle
David Wey
November 30, 2007
My heart felt feelings go out to the family of Dr. Bowers. My contact with him as a graduate of USF College of Business and member of Sigma Chi has been truly inspiring. He is a great person and will be missed by many.
Marilyn Smith
November 30, 2007
What a wonderful man, and what a legacy he leaves behind. I saw Dr. Bowers virtually every week when he attended Student Affairs staff meetings in the vice president's office. In the five-plus years I spent there, I can't recall ever seeing him without a smile and friendly words for everyone. I'm sure all who were close to him will miss him. To his family, I know you will have the best memories! You are in my thoughts.
Sincerely,
Marilyn (Guthrie/Jordan) Smith
[1970s]
Dr. Bowers & David Norton / Graduation - May 2003
David Norton
November 30, 2007
I had the privilege to work for Dr. Bowers as a graduate assistant in the USF College of Business Administration during the two years prior to his retirement. He was much more than a boss - he was a friend and a role model. His strong work ethic, organization and people skills, and infectious sense of humor are what I will remember most about him. He always had a smile and kind words to share with everyone he met - everyday. That generosity of spirit made for a life that touched so many others in so many positive ways, yet he was humble about his countless successes. I consider myself one of those - thank you, Dr. Bowers.
Alan Peche
November 30, 2007
To the Bowers Family:
Our family's thoughts are with you. It was always a pleasure working with Dick at MOSI. Sunday's mornings at First Watch will be a little sad from now on knowing we will never run into his smiling face again. Everyone who knew Dick was a better person -- he will be missed.
The Peche's -- Al, Janet & Olivia
Randy Coppersmith
November 30, 2007
Dr. B helped me get going in my career, and remained a friend and mentor to me for over 32 years. Whatever I am today, in part I certainly owe to him. I am deeply saddened by his passing. I will never, ever forget him. He was instrumental in helping to get many, many programs started at USF. As an alumni, I am proud to have worked with him, and known him. As a Sigma Chi, he was a leader for our fraternity and a stalwart in helping establish a chapter at USF. My deepest sympathies. He was truly a great man. I'll sure miss him.
Wayne Atherholt
November 30, 2007
Dear Madge and Family,
Dick was such a wonderful man who touched my life while I was at MOSI. I shall carry his memory with me and I do often repeat his favorite quote in my head. My thoughts are with you and the whole family.
Katie Hardcastle
November 30, 2007
I feel blessed to have known Dr. Bowers. He was truly one of the kindest, most compassionate men I’ve ever known. He always had a way to brighten your day. His smile and sense of humor were infectious. I will miss this wonderful human being. The life he led is one to emulate.
Peggy Harper Bomar
November 30, 2007
Tommy and I knew Richard at East High School. We were neighbors for years, went to Bailey Elm. school, in same church. He was "ONE IN A MILLION" the very best and will be grately missed. Great family.
Ronda Helm-Hiestand
November 30, 2007
To the Bowers Family:
I remember meeting Mr. Bowers at the Art Pepin/Chris Fredo Memorial Golf Tournaments. When he walked away I would think "What a true gentleman!!!" I am truly sorry for your loss. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Rod & Edna White
November 30, 2007
The three things I shall miss most about this amazing gentleman are:
** his incredible kindness and genuine capacity to care and show compassion toward others
** his truly keen sense of humor ... which left me holding my sides on a number of occasions
** his "Smile", which lit up the entire sky.
We will miss you more that you will ever know, Doc.
Your Friends ~ forever.
Rod & Kelly White
Cindy Benshoof Smith
November 30, 2007
My prayers are with you all during this time of sorrow. I will never forget Dr. Bower's wonderful smile and sincere care and concern for all the students he came in contact with. I attended USF in the 70's, (P.E. major and cheerleader) and truly admired and respected all that he contributed to the university and the students. He will be remembered fondly, and missed greatly. Again, my sympathy to the family, and thanks for sharing such a great man with us.
Linda Snyder
November 30, 2007
I enjoyed working with Dr. Bowers during my tenure as the basketball secretary at USF (from August, 1976 - March, 1979). In most recent years, I had the distinct pleasure of enjoying his support of our annual golf tournament and watching him enjoy the game he so loved with his good buddie Eddie Card.
My deepest sympathy to his family, colleagues, friends and the Tampa community.
His smile, warm hugs and his community support will be missed but he will remain with us in our hearts.
God Bless,
Cindy Kocher
November 30, 2007
Dick Bowers always had a smile on his face and never knew a stranger. He was one of the most positive individuals I have ever known. Every time I had the pleasure to talk to Dick, I always left with a smile in my heart. Blessings to Madge and the family.
Lorie Carter
November 30, 2007
Mrs. Bowers, Delisa and Rick,
We will never forget Mr. Bower's big bright smile--such a kind and caring gentleman he was. The kids would get so excited when they saw his car pull into the driveway. They would rush to get their bikes just to get Mr. Bower's attention so he would come over and say hi. We all loved him. We were blessed to have such a wonderful neighbor across the street, and will never forget him. The picture you chose for this page is just how we'll remember him always...with a bright, beautiful smile. Mrs. Bowers, please know that we are right across the street if we can do anything at all. You are all in our hearts.
Love,
Jamie, Lorie, Carlie and Matthew
Jeffrey Neil Fox
November 30, 2007
May the memories we all have for "Doc" Bowers always be a blessing. I met him back in 1971 when I enrolled as a student at USF. He played an instrumental role in helping us start the USF Lacrosse Club. I did work with Doc after I graduated. We published the Basketball, Soccer, Baseball program for the Athletic Department for 1o years. One of our brightest moments was opening night for the Sun Dome. Doc was always a pleasure to work with. His positive attitude and his ear to ear smile was contagious.
My deepest sympathy to his family.
Amy Dunkel
November 30, 2007
One more Angel has gone to Heaven to watch over those of us left here on earth. I had the incredible pleasure of working with Dr. Bowers in the College of Business from 1998 until 2003, when he retired. He was a WONDERFUL man. I never saw him without a smile. He had a unique way of lighting up any room he was in and I will always remember that. It was a complete honor to work with and have the chance to know Dr. Bowers. My thoughts and prayers are with all of his family.
~God Bless~
Donald Conner
November 30, 2007
As a longtime friend of the family it was Dr. Bowers who essentially got me into graduate school in '95 when my undergraduate grades didn't necessarily support that next step. I'm proud to say I got my M.A. in Economics two years later thanks to the doors he opened for me.
I've never forgotten the letter he wrote and the "strings" he pulled that allowed me the opportunity to further my education at USF.
To the family of Dr. Bowers, please know that if he did nothing else, the 2 hours he spent helping me in '95 provided me the opportunity to greatly enhance the rest of my life. I've never forgotten that.
Mike Griffin
November 30, 2007
Dick Bowers has been a mentor of mine since I met him during my freshman year at USF. The countless rounds of golf, lunches, and walks around campus with me are times which I hold sacred. I will miss Dick Bowers immensely. My sincere condolences to the entire family.
Sharon and Gene Didden
November 30, 2007
Dear Madge, Delisa and Rick:
Our hearts and prayers go out to you all at this time. Dick was a great person and a good friend. During the many years I worked with him while he served as a Director of the bank, he taught me about patience, that decisions should not be made without studying the whole picture. And yet, he could take a serious situation and with one statement, the world was bright again. He will be missed, not only by USF but the community as well. May God be with you.
Carolyn Bell
November 30, 2007
We cannot thank Dr. Bowers enough for his commitment to the Gold Shield Foundation. The foundation has been a godsend to myself, Ashley and Kacey after the loss of their father. We cannot thank him enough for his sincere dedication and passion towards the foundation.
We are so sorry for your loss.
Carolyn, Ashley and Kacey Bell
Jim Teske
November 30, 2007
I worked with Dick in saving a pair of sculptures by Joe Testa-Secca which embellished the front of the Jim Walter Research Corp in St Petersburg. These artworks were re-installed at MOSI. Dick was one of the most pleasant, capable persons I have ever met. My condolences to his family; a good person was lost and I am grateful for having had the chance to meet and to work with him.
Tony Grier
November 30, 2007
Our shining armor has moved on. But, he will linger in spirit and shine a light down to us and Fowler Ave forever.
USF, Mosi, and the Tampa Bay community are better today because of Dr. Bowers. We'll miss you Dick, and our prayers are with your family..Your unique people skills and personal touch will surely be missed.
Ken, Aarin and Pj Bass
November 29, 2007
What a wonderful man! What a great friend and inspiration to all of us who had the pleasure of knowing him and having our lives enriched by him and his family! It was indeed a pleasure having the chance to have Dr Bowers bless our lives with his.
James Lewis
November 29, 2007
I enjoyed working with Dr. Bowers during my tenure at USF. As a student I also played basketball with. He was a great peson and did all he could for USF.
Thomas Rawls
November 29, 2007
Rick & Family - Sorry to hear about your Dad... Our prayers are with you, and we will see you soon. Please let us know if we can do anything for you. - The Rawls Family
Ken Eriksen
November 29, 2007
The first Athletic Director I was ever involved with at USF. As a freshman, I struggled with a computer class during my first spring baseball season at USF. He called me into his office because he heard I was going to drop the class. He said let's take a walk. Wouldn't you know it, we walked all the way over to the business building to sit down with the professor so Dr. Bowers could find out what I needed to do to get a better grade. This was the AD for goodness sake! On the way back to the athletic department I received the same fatherly advice he gave to all the USF student athletes back then. "Just try.....that's all you have to do, is try and keep trying....it may not come to you today but it will." He always left you feeling good about yourself. As the years went by, I always told that story in front of him so he would know that he had a direct influence on my life. His teachings are the backbone of how I coach at USF today.
emily rosas
November 29, 2007
i remeber seeing dr.bowers at all the usf games and i loved seeing him at mosi. I am sorry for your loss. He is a wonderful person and a great friend.
Mark Rodriguez
November 29, 2007
Dear family & friends,
Please accept my sincerest condolences. Know that I will always celebrate Dick's life by trying to be a friend, example and mentor to young people. Some of us are lucky in life to have a teacher, a coach, or just someone in life that sees the good in us, that we don't see in ourself. Dick was just such a person...he saw the good in everyone...there is nothing more powerful! I can't imagine how many lives he has affected.
As many knew, Dick is a Sigma Chi. He helped found the Sigma Chi Chapter at USF in the late seventies. I was initiated into that charter chapter in March of '79.
God Bless you brother!
In hoc,
Gene & Mary Lou Weiner
November 29, 2007
A geat loss to the enire community. His compassion, dedication and sunny disposition remain an inspiration to all who knew him.
Jonathan Wey
November 29, 2007
I offer my deepest sympathy to the Bowers Family in their time of loss.
I had the privilege of getting to know Dr. Bowers and his son, Rick, while an undergraduate at the University of South Florida.
At that time, Dr. Bowers assumed an active role in mentoring the members of the Theta Beta Chapter of Sigma Chi Fraternity. For us, Dr. Bowers personified a standard of excellence in which few accomplished, but all endeavored to attain.
Dr. Bowers worked tirelessly to benefit the Tampa Bay Community, the University of South Florida, and the Sigma Chi Fraternity. It is through Dr. Bower's unrelenting efforts and leadership that a Greek Park became a reality at the University of South Florida.
Dr. Bower's will be missed.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
jeff and jan knott
November 29, 2007
My dearest friend Dick, who introduced me to all in Tampa. He was my golfing buddy, my mentor and my confidant.
He was eternal and no one can replace Dick.
It was a blessing for me to know Dick and to be able to speak to him everyday.
What can we say but Dick, we wish you well in the golf courses of heaven, with Art Pepin and Alan Reeves.
Jeff and Jan Knott
Aaron Jones
November 29, 2007
I had a chance to meet and play golf with Dr. Bowers a couple of years ago. All, I can say is that he was one amazing guy. He always had an interesting story or a quick one liner that always kept people smiling and laughing. I count myself lucky to have met the man and my thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Keith Tozier
November 29, 2007
I am very sorry to hear of your great loss and would like extend my sincere condolences to Mrs Bowers, Delisa, Rick and family on behalf of the Tozier family. I am sure you are going through a very difficult time.
Cynthia Cherry
November 29, 2007
My prayers and thoughts are with you during this hardship! Keep your spirits high and keep on smiling just like he did!!
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