Tommy Bowman 11/27/2023

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.