WINDHAM- Merle “Bo” W. Bowman Jr., of Windham, Maine, died peacefully Mon. Sept.25, 2017 at home with his family by his side.
Merle was born in Waterville, Maine on Feb. 17, 1939. He grew up in Sidney, ME on his grandparent’s farm, attended local schools, and graduated from Waterville high school in 1957. Merle grew up hunting and fishing and working at local farms at an early age. In 1960, Merle enlisted in the Army and spent three years in Germany. He used this opportunity to visit other European countries. After an honorable discharge, Merle moved to Portland and worked at a grain mill, Donnelly Advertising, then started Bo’s Cleaning Service. Later in life, he worked for Vito’s bakery as the manager and ended his career at the City of Portland in the maintenance department.
Bo was a very friendly and social man, who knew a lot of people in the Portland area with his favorite hangout being Dunkin Donuts (hazelnut, cream & sugar). You could find him there on a daily basis. His work ethic and friendly face was noticed by so many. Co-workers, friends and family appreciated his sense of humor and reliability. Bo rode motorcycles for many years and was part of the Seacoast Riders. His favorite family trip was to the White Mountains, NH.
Merle was pre-deceased by his parents, Merle Bowman Sr. and Apphia Casso, by his grandparents William and Florence Bowman, and brother William Bowman. Merle is survived by sister Patricia (Bowman) Fisher and husband John Fisher, sister- in- law Sandy Bowman and his childhood friends Merrill Stevens and George Corey, his wife of 33 yrs. Sharon Gile Bowman, his children Amber and Cody Bowman, and his granddaughter Emi Chase.
Family and friends are invited to attend an informal celebration of life at his home, 26 Anderson Rd in Windham, ME on Oct 8, 2017 from 2:00 PM on. Merle’s burial will be held at the Maine Veterans Cemetery in Augusta at a further date.
Online condolence messages can be posted at the Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service website, www.mainefuneral.com
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to his granddaughter’s college fund: NexGen College Fund/ FBO Emi Chase and sent to 26 Anderson Rd., Windham, Me. 04062