Jim Bowman

James “Jim” Duane Bowman passed July 11, 2024, at Stormont Vail Hospital, Topeka, KS, with his wife and sons by his side. He was born in Coldwater, KS on October 21, 1944, to Merle and Gladys (Friend) Bowman.

He graduated from Coldwater High School and continued his education at the University of Kansas, completing bachelor’s and master’s degrees. He taught mathematics in USD #501 schools for 39 years, retiring from Topeka West High School in 2005. He was also an adjunct professor at Washburn University.

Jim married his high school sweetheart, Judith Eileen Brown, in Coldwater on August 22, 1965. They raised two sons in the Seaman community where they were members of Second Presbyterian Church and active with Boy Scout Troop #50.

Jim and Judy always loved to travel, first with their boys and even more in retirement. They visited all 50 states. In retirement, Jim volunteered with the Extension Master Gardeners. He grew the best tomatoes and peppers. They had a cabin at Council Grove City lake for many years where they enjoyed entertaining family and friends.

Jim is survived by his wife of 58 years, Judy, and sons Randall James Bowman (Mindy) of Topeka and Kevin Todd Bowman (Jenn) of Lees Summit, MO., granddaughters Zoe of St Louis, Kelsey of Milwaukee, and twins Claire and Elliot Bowman attending KU. Surviving siblings are Dovie Stringer (Jim) of Hutchinson, Lois Hoffman (Bob) and Juanita Rumsey (Roger) of Wichita, brothers Ron (Cathy) of Wichita, twins Richard (Kathy) and Robert Bowman (Barbara) of Hutchinson, sister-in-law Linda Bowman of Winfield. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Don of Winfield. He was privileged to have a large extended family of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 3:00 pm on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at Parker Price and Davidson Funeral Home, 245 Independence Ave, Topeka, KS, 66608. A visitation will take place one hour prior to the service. Family and friends are invited to greet the family at a reception following the service. Jim will be inurned at Crown Hill Cemetery in Coldwater, KS on Saturday, August 10, 2024 at 10:00am. In lieu of flowers, contributions are suggested to SN CO Extension Master Gardeners or a charity of your choice.

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