William “Bill” Bradstreet Bowie Sr.

HOWLAND – William “Bill” Bradstreet Bowie, Sr., 85, of Howland, Maine, passed away peacefully on Nov. 15, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on Dec. 1, 1939, in Gardiner, Maine, son of William and Thelma Bowie, Bill was a proud veteran who served his country with honor and was a long-term member of the American Legion and Elks Order. A devoted son, husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, his kindness and generosity touched countless lives.

From an early age, Bill learned the value of hard work, starting in his family’s donut shop. He later became a skilled refrigeration technician, worked for Delta Airlines, and often juggled up to three jobs to provide for his loved ones. Despite his demanding schedule he always made time to care for his aging parents and, in later years, his beloved wife through her illness.

In 1964, Bill married the love of his life, Susan Lee Bowie, embarking on a 60-year journey of partnership and devotion. Their favorite pastime was traveling the roads of Maine together. Bill loved fishing, hunting, farming and playing cards. He was always dreaming of his next big project.

Bill had a gift for connecting with people. Oh, the stories he could tell of his many adventures! He was endlessly curious, always eager to learn something new, and never hesitated to lend a helping hand. A lifelong champion of the underdog, he rooted passionately for New England sports teams through every triumph and heartbreak.

Together, Bill and Sue raised four children, filling their home with laughter, traditions, and unwavering support. Their family grew to include 13 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Bill is survived by his son, William and his wife Jacqueline, and their children, Jonathan (and his wife Ripley and their daughter Winter Rose), Elizabeth (and her husband Andrew and their children Beulah, Abilene, Hiram and Amos), Christa, Emily, and Hope; daughter Janet and her partner Joe, and her children, Danielle (and her husband Warren), Patrick, and the late Cody and Amanda; daughter Deborah and her husband, Bruce, and their son, Maddison; and daughter Gail and her husband Steve, and their daughters, Jennifer, Shelby, and Kelly (and her husband, Ryan). Bill is survived by his sister Carol Jean Gordon. He was predeceased by his brothers Leon and Douglas Bowie.

The family will honor his memory with a quiet farewell.

Rest in peace, dear Bill, who has joined his lovely Sue—you will forever be loved and remembered.

In lieu of flowers,

donations to:

Autism Speaks Inc

are welcomed