Larry Bond Bowman

Larry was born on April 7, 1939, in Appalachia, Virginia, to James and Annabel Bowman. In 1942, his family relocated to Wyoming, where he spent his early years in Cheyenne and Laramie. Larry married Myrna Potter on August 22, 1959, in Laramie. All four of their children; Suzie, Jeff, Kim, and Cindy were born in Wyoming.

Larry graduated from High School in 1957, and enrolled at the University of Wyoming for school and football. He later transferred to Colorado College where he earned his Bachelors degree in Education. He began his teaching and coaching career at Worland High School teaching English and coaching football. The family moved back to Laramie where he taught at Laramie High School.

In the summer of 1969, Larry and Myrna moved their family to Oregon, where he began teaching at Lake Oswego High School as a freshman English teacher. He made a lasting impact both in the classroom and on the athletic field. Known for his kindness and high expectations, Larry believed every student had the ability to be extraordinary.

Coaching was one of Larry’s greatest passions. Over the years, he coached football and track, while also being a referee for basketball. His dedication to athletics at Lake Oswego High School earned him the nickname “Larry Laker,” a name that endured for decades. Today, the school honors his legacy with an annual award given to student-athletes who exemplify the values he championed- hard work, leadership, perseverance, and teamwork.

Larry and his wife, Myrna, became devoted members of Lake Grove Presbyterian Church shortly after moving to Oregon. Larry was deeply involved in church life, serving as a teacher, mentor, choir member, and offering support to all in need. Following his retirement, he co-founded the Job Seekers program at the church in 2004. This program has since helped hundreds of individuals connect with mentors and find employment and is one of Larry’s proudest contributions to his community.

Larry also had a lifelong love of music. He was an active member of the church choir for more than 50 years and participated in the Singing Christmas Tree for over 25 years. He was known for his enthusiasm for singing, often sharing his voice freely including a memorable rendition of “Happy Birthday” that brought joy to many.

Larry is survived by his wife Myrna, his four children Suzie Gabler, Jeff Bowman, Kim Schultz, Cindy Klein and their spouses, 13 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, as well as his sister Nita Gabel and brother Ben Bowman.

A service and reception will be held on Saturday, August 29, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m.

Lake Grove Presbyterian Church,

4040 Sunset Drive, Lake Oswego, Oregon.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Larry Bowman’s name to the:

Job Seekers program,

c/o.Lake Grove Presbyterian Church,

4040 Sunset Drive, Lake Oswego, OR 97035.