Larry Wade Bowen

Larry proudly enlisted in the United States Navy in 1959, serving aboard the USS Herbert J. Thomas and the USS Hector. After returning to Copperas Cove, he married the love of his life, Barbara S. George, on January 15, 1965.

He began his career with Lone Star Gas before transitioning into construction, where he worked as a skilled trim carpenter. Larry later secured licenses in plumbing and HVAC, demonstrating his commitment to mastering his craft. He joined his brother, John Bowen, at Bowen Real Estate, earning his Real Estate Broker’s license along the way. Larry ultimately built a long and dedicated civil service career at Fort Hood as a Planner/Estimator for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning, retiring in 2003 after 25 years of service.

Larry had a deep love for woodworking and was known for his remarkable craftsmanship and attention to detail. He found great joy at his home in Pidcoke, Texas, where he and Barbara raised goats, cared for their beloved pet donkeys, and kept a well stocked fishing pond. His grandchildren affectionately called him “Grandpa with the Donkey,” a nickname that brought him immense pride and joy.

After the passing of his wife, Larry relocated to Lampasas, Texas. In his later years, he devoted himself to preserving his family’s legacy by writing two books documenting the histories of both his mother’s and father’s families. Alongside his faithful friend Peggy Wolfe, Larry traveled far and wide researching family records and stories—adventures that cemented a meaningful friendship and companionship.

Larry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara Bowen; his father, Charlie Swope Bowen; his mother, Kittie Diserens Bowen Jerome; and his brothers, John W. Bowen and Howard E. Bowen.

He is survived by his son, John D. Bowen and wife Christine of Lampasas; his daughter, Teressa Bowen Hattaway and Duke Moore of Granger; sister-in law Judy Bowen of Copperas Cove; his cherished grandchildren: Jennifer Chappell and husband Dustin, Jarrod Bowen and wife Amanda, Collin Bowen and wife Alyssa, all of Lampasas; Austin Hattaway of Jarrell; Abby Powell and husband Nathan of Georgetown; and Jade Fox and Stephen Painter of Bay City; as well as 13 beloved great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

He is also survived by his faithful loving friend, Peggy Wolfe of Lampasas, Texas.

Larry will be remembered for his steady work ethic, creativity, sharp humor, and the quiet, meaningful life he built around the things he loved most. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched, the stories he preserved, and the memories his family will forever carry forward.

Visitation will be held at CRAWFORD-BOWERS FUNERAL HOME, 211 W Avenue B, Copperas Cove, TX 76522-1656, US, on May 5, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm, with the Funeral Service to follow at the same location at 2:00PM. A Graveside service to follow will be held at Pidcoke Cemetery, County Road 142, Pidcoke, TX 76522, US, on May 5, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 3:30 pm.