Gene Paul Bowden

Gene Paul Bowden, aged 85, peacefully passed away on March 17, 2024, in Yuma, AZ. He was born on March 12, 1939, in Welch, West Virginia. Gene served honorably in the Air Force for 8 years before embarking on his career in the Dairy Queen business in 1970 as well as Pablos until its closure.

Throughout his life, Gene was deeply involved in his community and held memberships in Yuma Lodge #17, F&AM, and Yuma Chapter #14, OES. He was a beloved husband to his wife of 54 years, Johnnie, and a devoted father to his sons, John Mark and David Shane, and daughters, Gina Gillespie (Dan) and Shannon Seals (Jim). Gene also cherished his role as a grandfather to 13 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Gene is preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Opal Bowden, his brother William Bowden, and sister Freda Demmon. A celebration of Gene's life will be held on Friday, March 22nd, at 10 am at Johnson Mortuary, followed by a graveside service.

Pallbearers will be his grandsons, Andrew Seals, Ocean Bowden, Linus Bowden, and Johnathon Seals, his brother-in-law, Richard Dollar and his son in law, Jim Seals.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to the Grand Chapter OES Scholarship Fund at 4251 E. Thomas Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85018-7603.

Gene will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and his fellow hunting and fishing enthusiasts, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories.