John was born the son of Lyman and Nellie Bowing in Manchester, Kentucky on September 5, 1924. He moved to Michigan with his parents at age 3, graduating from high school in Warren, MI, in 1942. He briefly worked as a machinist before enlisting in the Army in April of 1943. During World War II he trained stateside as a pilot, flying numerous planes including the P51 Mustangs. Lieutenant Bowling was honorably discharged in October, 1945.
John returned to Michigan upon discharge, and began college at Lawrence Institute of Technology, now Lawrence Technical University. He graduated with a degree in engineering and began a successful career. Initially employed with Curtiss-Wright, he moved to Packard Automobile Company. When Packard closed, he found his home with General Motors, ultimately in the Detroit Diesel Division. As a quality control supervisor, he was ahead of his time. John retired in June of 1988 after 26 years of service in the Chevrolet – Pontiac – Canada Group.
Despite attending school and pursuing a career, John found time to court and marry Mary Dorothy McNeil in October of 1951. John and Dorothy had 4 children, and were married for 58 years. In the early years of marriage, his time was occupied with work and the many requirements of raising 4 active children. He was also instrumental in furthering his young wife’s goal of higher education and was proud when she was awarded her PhD. He strongly encouraged and supported his children’s educational aspirations as well. In retirement, John was an avid gardener and reader. He enjoyed meeting people, greeting them with a ready handshake and a smile. He had a beautiful voice – and would often be the only one singing Happy Birthday to his 'tone deaf' children. He loved family gatherings, and reveled in the lives and successes of his grandchildren and great grandchildren, describing them all as “just terrific".
John is survived by his children: Dr. Beth (Paul Rhodes) Bowling, Lee (MaryAnn) Bowling, John (Mary) Bowling, Lawrence (Shelia Konen) Bowling. He is also survived by his grandchildren: John Bowling, Joseph Bowling, Jacklynn Bowling, Quyhn Bowling, Miranda Bowling, Nicole (Dr. Robert) Davis, Dr. Alyssa (Kevin Mulder) Bowling; great grandchildren Ruby, Zora, and Della - as well as many nieces and nephews. John is predeceased by his wife Dr. Mary Dorothy Bowling, his parents and siblings Lee Bowling and Rebecca Kozma.
John's family will hold private services. Entombment will be at White Chapel Cemetery in Troy, Michigan.
