1918
2017
JACK RAY BOWDEN, 98, died March 11, 2017 in San Antonio, following a short illness. He was born July 29, 1918 in McKinney, Texas to Jodi Jackson Bowden and Willie Lee Stapp Bowden.
Jack was a fifth generation Texan whose great, great grandfather Elijah Stapp signed the Texas Declaration of Independence in 1836 at Washington-on-the-Brazos. His great grandfather William Preston Stapp was part of the Mier Expedition fighting in Northern Mexico in 1842 and was captured. Although General Santa Anna ordered all of the prisoners shot, a game of chance based on drawing a black or white bean spared 90 per cent of those captured, including Jack's great grandfather.
Jack's early years were spent in McKinney where he rode a horse bareback to school. His father worked in a mill, and after injuring his leg, the family moved to the Temple-Belton area.
In the late 1930s, Jack joined the Civilian Conservation Corps working in Colorado as a mess sergeant. He then joined the U.S. Army at Fort Sam Houston prior to World War II to serve in the field artillery. During the war, Jack was in General George Patton's army in North Africa and participated in the landing at Salerno, Italy, in June 1943. Though he was not a pilot in the military, he had a private pilot's license and once was called upon to fly a plane directing anti-aircraft fire at the German army, an operation in which he was wounded. After the war, Jack started the Mohawk Equipment Co. in Temple, Texas making and selling 60 inch mowers. He later sold Mohawk, and worked for other companies selling farm equipment. He also built and owned other businesses including a gas station and a restaurant. Jack moved to San Antonio in the 1970s where he remained until his death.
Jack taught himself to play the piano, was an avid world traveler, and an expert ballroom dancer, at one time belonging to five dance clubs. He was a member of Universal City United Methodist Church, Friendship Force of San Antonio, Alzafar Shrine, Elks Lodge, and Masonic Lodge. He participated in the Walk to Emmaus retreat. Jack was a devoted family man with strong character and integrity.
Beloved survivors include Jack's wife of the past 21 years, Martha Renno Bowden; a daughter Lori Younce and grandchildren Britt and Devin Davis; stepson Barry Bowden, grandchildren Lynn Robertson and John Bowden, along with great grandchildren Grace and Emily Robertson; and niece Shirley Lankford and her children, Jona, Robin, and Trae. Relatives who preceded Jack in death include his son, Jackie Lee Bowden; his parents; his sister Elsie and her daughter Cristy Stamper; and wife Goldie Bowden.
There will be a memorial service with reception to follow on Thursday, March 16th at 11 a.m. at Universal City United Methodist Church, 90 Winn Ave., Universal City (210-659-5555). In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts to Universal City UMC for the Building Fund will be gratefully accepted. Burial at North Belton Cemetery will be private.
Arrangements under the direction of Colonial Funeral Home, Universal City, Texas.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Colonial Funeral Home.
4 Entries
March 21, 2017
Charles and Barbara Goss
Martha, Charles and I were so shocked to see that Jack had passed away. I remember you both at The Inn at Los Patios and Charles and I remember the Wonderful Birthday Party you invited us to for Jacks Birthday at the Country Club. May all the memories you hold close stay bright in your memory. God Bless you and yours.
Barbara
March 16, 2017
Margaret Alvarez
Mrs. Bowden,
I am sorry to hear of your loss of Jack. He had quite an amazing heritage and clearly one to be proud of by all family members.
My prayers and thoughts are with you and your loved ones.
Margaret Alvarez
Vice-President
Carousel Club
March 14, 2017
Mrs. Bowden ~
It just broke my heart when I heard that we lost Mr. Bowden. He was such a hoot and will be terribly missed. You have been such an amazing bride, taking such beautiful care of him always... setting such a perfect example of love and respect. I know you have so many amazing memories together, which I hope help comfort you during this extremely difficult time. We are here for you with hugs and support. I adore you and want you to know I will keep you in my prayers. Big Hugs sweet lady ~ May God hold you tightly in the palm of His hand.
Michelle Houriet Voutour - Independence Hill Executive Director
March 14, 2017
Please accept my condolences for the passing of Ray. May mercy and peace and love be increased to you all.
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