Leslie Leonard Bowman

Leslie L. “Les” Bowman, age 81, of Traverse City passed away Saturday, August 6, 2016 at Munson Medical Center. He was born at home on October 15, 1934 in Grant Twp. to Earl and Nettie (Strickfaden) Bowman.

Les was drafted into the US Army and served his country for 2 years, being discharged as a Corporal and receiving the good conduct medal, riffle sharp shooter bar, and the expert machine gun sharpshooter bar.

Les married Shirley (Dean) Olds on April 16, 1960 at the Kingsley Baptist Church. Les held many jobs over the years. He worked for GM on the assembly line, Bennett Pump in Muskegon, Sealed Power in Muskegon, Fruitport and Traverse City Bus garage, driving bus, Great Lakes Stripping, and Kenmark Inc., As well as many other outdoor Maintenance Companies. Les owned and operated Bowman Parking Lot Sweep for 20 years.

In his spare time, Les was a volunteer at the TC Senior Center, Senior Companion, Northwest Food Coalition, Kings Men Food Wagon, and the Muskegon Big Brothers, Big Sisters organization. He was a snowmobile trail groomer, a member of the Buckley Old Engine and Thresher Club, a life time member of the Eagles, American Military League, and the Summit City Grange.

Les was an avid bowler and competed in state and national tournaments for many years. He also sponsored many bowling league teams.

Les will be greatly missed by his loving wife of 56 years, Shirley; son Bruce Bowman of Traverse City, granddaughter Kassidy Bay; great grandson Nathan Bay; sisters-in-law Marie and Irene Bowman, and many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, Les was preceded in death by his step daughter Kathleen Marie (Olds) Bay and seven siblings: Geneva Brownell, Arthur Bowman, Edsel Bowman, Edward (Nancy) Bowman, Harold (Helen) Bowman, Anna Clouse, and Jean Flory.

A visitation will be held Wednesday, August 10, 2016 from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at the Covell Funeral Home in Kingsley. A funeral will be held Thursday, August 11, 2016 at 1 p.m. also at the funeral one; Pastor Steven Hayes officiating.

Memorial contributions in Les’s name may be directed to Summit City Grange, Mayfield Chapel, or to the family.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Covell Funeral Home of Kingsley.