PALMYRA – Bruce Allan Bowman, 75, passed away August 4, 2023. He was born Feb. 20, 1948, on Long Island, N.Y. Bruce was part of an Air Force family which was comprised of his father, Harry Guy Bowman, his mother, Katharine (Stout) Bowman, his sister, Nancy Jane (Bowman) Duggan, and his brother, Roger Ralph Bowman who predeceased him.

The family moved to Winter Park, Fla, in 1962. Bruce graduated from Winter Park High School in 1966, and thereafter joined the US Air Force where he served four years. He enrolled in Florida State University and graduated with a BS degree in Recreation Therapy. Bruce had a lifelong passion for the university and its athletes, shared by other family members. If you noted a Volvo making the daily trip from Palmyra to Bangor, flying an FSU Seminole flag, that was Bruce.

After working in therapy in several facilities in the country, Bruce moved to Palmyra, and purchased property there. He built his own home on that land, using its timber and resources. He cut down every tree himself. Bruce worked as a Recreational Therapist at the Dorothea Dix Psychiatric Hospital in Bangor for twenty-four years before retiring.

Bruce was passionate about fly fishing, practicing catch and release. He was a very active member of the Kennebec Valley Trout Unlimited chapter. Over a couple of decades, his chapter worked with like-minded organizations to remove the Edwards Dam in Augusta, accomplished in 1999. Bruce also taught fly casting and tying as well as conservation in schools and other settings. He was an officer of Trout Unlimited, serving in that capacity for many years. Bruce served as an Area Director for Special Olympics for many years and volunteered until the last year of his life, coaching, training, and taking “his kids” to many competitions. Bruce loved line dancing with his Boogie Buddies. He was fortunate enough to meet his beloved companion, Brenda Andrews, there. Bruce and Brenda spent the last fifteen years wintering in Naples, Florida where they enjoyed many activities together.

Bruce was a kind and gentle soul, passionate about everything he did in life. Rest in Peace Bruce.

Bruce is survived by his loving partner, Brenda, her two children, Tammy and Todd; his beloved sister, Nancy, and her husband Bob, and their four children, Chris (Kelli), Greg (Ginger), Anji, and Amanda (Jonathan). He is also survived by his four great nephews and nieces, Alec, Lucie, Anabel, and Rylan.

Those who wish may leave written condolences at http://www.CrosbyNeal.com

Copy the Story Link