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Tommy Bowman, 72, of River Falls, died surrounded by those who loved him most, on November 27, 2023, at his home in River Falls. He was born on March 3, 1951, to Stanley and Shirley (Nesler) Bowman in Mora, MN. His family eventually moved to Garvin Heights in Winona, MN where they established the family farm. Tom grew up with his six siblings helping milk cows, farm crops and do chores. He was a mischievous and playful child, a favorite among his siblings. In 1969 Tom graduated from Winona High School. He went on to pursue a degree in Carpentry from Winona Vocational School. Tom met the love of his life, Charlene Russeau and made her his Bride on July 26, 1975. He was a champion canoe racer in his younger years. One of his favorite past times is his 20’s was dirt and ice bike racing; his fearless and brave spirit lead him to many victories. He had a love for muskrat trapping, and duck and deer hunting.
Over the years Tom worked various construction jobs before discovering his passion as a homebuilder and framer. Tom helped build thousands of homes over his lifetime. Tom and Charlene went onto welcome three children, Hunter, Heidi and Kassie. Eventually they moved their family to River Falls, WI where they called home for the remainder of his life. One of Tom’s greatest joys was working with his son Hunter building homes, their endless hours spent together will forever be cherished by Hunter. All those who know Tom would describe him as a gentle, light hearted and fun man, who rarely got upset. His grandchildren especially loved listening to his stories and laughing at his jokes.
He will be eternally missed by those who loved him. Life will never feel the same for his wife and best friend, Charlene. Tom and Charlene’s life was blessed with their friendship and deep love for one another. May his memory live on in those whose lives were touched by Tom.
He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Charlene; their kids, Hunter Bowman (Mara), Heidi Van Nurden (Ryan), and Kassie Bowman; grandchildren, Drake, Harper and Briley Bowman; Charles, Isabella, William and Annabelle Van Nurden. He is also survived by his siblings, Leon (Birdie) Bowman, Sam (Melissa) Bowman, Kristine Bowman, Kathy Bowman, Karen (Darv) Pruka; and sister-in-law, Joelene Bowman; Charlene’s siblings, Luann (Ted) Beeman and Dennis (Sherry) Russeau. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents Stanley and Shirley Bowman, as well as his father and mother-in-law, Charles and Ella Mae Russeau; his brother, Robin Bowman; and brother-in-law, Darel (Marcia) Russeau.
A memorial service for Tom was Saturday, December 9, 2023 at 3PM at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services (805 E Division St.) River Falls, WI. Visitation is the same day, starting at 1PM. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.
17 Comments
We are so very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. RIP Tom.
I loved my dad so much. He taught me many things. How to get up and go to work even when I didn’t want. How to ride a motorcycle, how to frame hundreds of houses. I was lucky to spends so much time with him. Kind of like a farmer and his son but. It was a framer and his. I was holding him in my arms when he died. Felt a beautiful calmness. I know he went to heaven.
Hunter Bowman
I was with my dad when he passed and I’m glad I made it in time
He knew you were with him❤️
God Bless you Hunter and may the Lord be with you in this time of sorrow.I love you my God Son so much.Glad you held him in your arms and gave your dad that final good bye.Your dad needed you to let him know its ok to go home to his HEAVENLY father.There is no doubt in my mind your dad is in heaven.He was the most kind caring loving man husband father son brother and friend to so many.You were blessed to call him DAD.Love you
We are sorry for your loss. Sam loved his brother Tom. They stuck together ever since they were kids against older brother for strength, and they knew they’d get the best of him. Sam enjoyed talking with Tom on the phone these last few months. Sam still loves his younger brother Tom. Tom will be missed. God bless you and your family.
Sorry for yours and my loss. Two younger Brothers in Two years, sure will miss being able to talk to them. Tom and I did a lot of things together, were in business together, fights, camping, hunting, canoe races and I could write a book about it. Sure going to miss him.
tom was my protector when i was young. He taught me to shoot a gun, drive tractor, trap gophers and milk cows. I spent much of my childhood going places and doing things with him. He was kind and funny. Was glad i got to see him one more time. I will miss him beyond belief. hugs to his family’s He loved you guys so much!
We lived across the street from Tom and Charlene for years. Our kids grew up together (and eventually my Ryan and there Heidi joined into a beautiful marriage.) We have been family for many many years. May all your wonderful memories bring you some peace. I am so very sorry for you all. RIP Tom♥️
I will cherish all my memories with Uncle Tom & Charlene. All the canoe races, van ins, camping, paddle boat ride, dancing. He always lit up a room and made everyone laugh. He was kind and down to earth. His love for Charlene and his family was endless and will live on through them. Fly high Uncle Tom😓❤️
I am so sorry for your loss Hunter. I met your
Dad ar your wedding. My Deepest Sympathy and Sincere Condolences go to you and your entire family.
We’re so sorry to hear the news about your dad, Hunter. It was such a gift that you were able to spend so much time working with him, and such a blessing that you were with him as he passed. Sending love & condolences to you and your extended family as you all move through this difficult time.
My husband Rom Hewett was a friend of the Bowman family. Hunted and fished with them. Sympathy to the family in their loss. Spent a lot of time in the garage of Stan and Shirley during the hunting seasons. Tom did some work for us at our home in Winona.
My deepest condolences to you all. Tom was a fun loving guy, always pulling pranks and laughing. He had a very big heart and how could anyone ever forget that big smile!
So sorry for your loss. Tom was so much fun to talk to. We always made each other laugh and gave each other some razzing!! I feel bad that I am unable to come to River Falls for his service but I have some health issue’s going on right now myself. Tom was more than just my cousin, he was also a friend.
I’m so sorry to hear about Uncle Tom. He was so full of life and I have so many memories of that amazing boisterous laugh of his, you always knew it was him! Dad often talked of the antics of Tom as a big brother. He was always fun and kind and was a great family man. My heart goes out to Charlene, Hunter, Heidi, and Kassie.
Tom and Charlene were always a Joy to be around. The two together made a perfect pair.. (Two peas in a pod) I am saddened to hear of his passing. He was a Gentle Giant. A patient carpenter who would give you the extra time it took to get the knowledge you needed. I send my deepest sympathy to the Bowman family for your loss. RIP my friend.
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