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Bill Bowen

Dec 13th, 1941 - Apr 6th, 2014

Funeral:  11 a.m. Saturday, April 12, 2014 at Frank & Bright Funeral Home

Visitation:  9-11 a.m. Saturday, April 12, 2014 at Frank & Bright Funeral Home

 

    William Charles Bowen, age 72, of Hilton Head, S.C., formerly of Olney, Illinois, died Sunday, April 6, 2014, at Hilton Head Regional Medical Center.

    Bill was born in Flora, Illinois on December 13, 1941 to Donald and Olive Smith Bowen, and grew up at Charlie Brown Park, where his parents were the caretakers.  He graduated from Flora High School(’60) and Murray State University on a tennis scholarship, winning the Ohio Valley Conference tennis championship. While at MSU, Bill also received the Athletic Academic Award.  One of his most prestigious tennis awards was when he was initiated into Frog Island Tennis Club by Kayo Powless as Oscar4dice.

    Bill thereafter graduated from the University of Kentucky Law School, where he became an avid (some say rabid) Kentucky Wildcat fan.  Bill moved to Olney, Illinois, where he practiced law for many years.  Upon retiring Bill moved to Hilton Head Island, where his last position was “da mayor” of the Beach Club, alongside K-dog (the official mascot), and being much loved by his “constituents.”

    Bill is survived by his wife of 49 years, Patsy Dixon Bowen, two daughters, Julie (Rob) Colvis, and Dawn (Jamie) Turner, and three grandsons, Luke and Clark Turner, and Jack Colvis, all of Paducah, Kentucky.  He is also survived by several nieces and a nephew.

    Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 12, 2014 at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora, Illinois.  Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday at the funeral home. The family will gather to visit with all friends and family at Anthony's Restaurant immediately after the service.  A private burial will occur at North Ballard Missionary Baptist Church in Wickliffe, Kentucky. Memorial donations may be made to Frog Island Tennis Club and will be received at the funeral home.  An online guest book is available at www.frankandbright.com

 

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Condolences

Jim Yates

April 7th

I shall so miss Bill. You miss all that pass; but some take your breath away. He always treated me with kindness. He was always there when I needed help. You wake each morning knowing those you most love are in your life. Then one morning; they are not. I wish comfort and understanding to his immediate family and to his many friends.

Bob Powless

April 7th

"Oscar" I have been thinking this morning of all the times and experiences we had together on and off the tennis court. You making me come to Sunday school class every Sunday when our high school tennis team went undefeated for 3 1/2 years. This really hurts. Judie and I want Patsy, Julie, Dawn and their families to know that they are foremost in our thoughts and prayers. I take some comfort in knowing you are in good hands now. The "MAYOR" of FrogIsland has probably already lined you up for doubles this week. I'll be along one of these days. Save me a spot on the team. Your old FrogIsland doubles partner. "Bullard"

MICHAEL KLOBNAK

April 7th

I know I am getting old when my friends start dying. Although we were often adversaries in Court, we were friends before and afterwards since about 1983. I came to Hilton Head over many winters to see Da mayor. Some laughingly called you stingy and you reveled in that, but I know you bought many rounds for me and others. It just won't be the same without your rascal character to liven up the group. In your honor, I will even route for UK tonight for its biggest fan. You will be missed by many.

Tom McCawley

April 8th

Oscar, it hurts to lose you. As the third member of the 'Big Three" that went undefeated for those years, I well remember our battles that you almost always won. I so admired your joy for living. You lived a full life and left a wonderful legacy. You will be missed. Shorty Carlyle

Janet (Schack) and Phil Carlock

April 8th

Our sincere sympathy to Patsy and her girls, Julie and Dawn, and rest of family. In time may only wonderful memories of Bill ease your sadness. Love, Janet (Schack) and Phil Carlock 1705 Coronita Drive Fenton, MO 63026-2345

Everett (JR) Thompson

April 8th

I knew Bill when he lived in Olney. I came home after my 30 days on the towboat expecting to see Bill in our local Elk's Lodge. Another local told me he had moved out of state. I always enjoyed talking with Bill as he made me feel like I was someone. I think he also enjoyed hearing about my life on the big river. Rest in peace Bill and I hope to see you around the bend on the other side.

Tom Higgins

April 8th

A profound loss has come upon me and other former members of the Murray State Tennis Community. As a former roommate, team mate, and lifetime friend, I have always known Bill aka "Spear" to be a compassionate and generous person, yet a fierce competitor. Bill and I shared my good times, laughs, and cries. We have stayed close in recent years by sharing E-Mails and our mutual dislike for our President. Patsy, Julie, and Dawn: You are all in my prayers, and you share my greatest condolences. I love you....Oscar, and I will dedicate the remainder of my coaching career to you. Tom Higgins

Tom Owens

April 8th

I selected a candle for you my friend--that's because they did not have Budweiser. See you later!!!

Sandy Dew

April 8th

When I first moved to Hilton Head 9 years ago I didn't know a soul, and was a bit apprehensive. Then I saw the University of Kentucky (my alma mater) flag proudly displayed on the house next door, and I knew everything would be alright. Little did I know then what a profound impact the owner of that flag would have on my transition to my new life here on Hilton Head. Bill was a beacon of light for me....always happy and positive with his "pithy" comments that made me laugh. I only knew him for 9 years, but I will miss him forever.

Debbie & Jack Cooke

April 9th

Bill, The Beachclub will never be the same. You will be truly missed by many. Love and Prayers to your lovely family. Debbie & Jack

Rick Saba

April 8th

I was fortunate to be a neighbor of Bill and Patsy's on Otter Road, he was always so much fun and always had nothing but a kind word to say to anyone he would meet and usually a funny line. I am saddened to hear of Bill's passing. I know that anyone that met Bill was better for it and everyone knows that. Sincerely, Rick

Jerry and Sharon Moskwiak

April 8th

Our thoughts and prayers are with Patsy and the family. Bill was the light that was the Beach Club and we are all the better for having known him. His humor was contagious and how we loved the costumes! Rest in peace, Bill. This Bud is for you! Jerry and Sharon Moskwiak Ann Arbor, MI

Bobby H. Richardson

April 9th

Bill was my friend, from law school to Hilton Head. I rediscovered Bill in Hilton Head and a highlight of my vacations in Hilton Head was to meet Bill at the Beach Club for a afternoon of comaraderie. Hilton Head will never be the same for me.

Debrah Doud Barnes

April 9th

I will miss my True Friend! RIP Bill!

bill porterfield

April 9th

Julie and family Sharon and i are really sorry for your loss of the hog dog frog catcher of frog island. We remember the good times when we lived in flora and Bill would come by never knew when he was going to show up but we always looked forward to it. We were looking forward to seeing you in Paducah. I also remember the good times at Murray and watching Bill play tennis. Sharon's mom still lives in Lone Oak.

April 9th

So sorry to have a wonderful man leave our world! Prayers to the Bowen family co

Dennis & Barbara Rohr

April 9th

Bill sure loved life. He will be missed by so many. We are so sorry for your loss, but we know you have so many memories that will bring much comfort. Our sympathies to your family.

Kerry boozer

April 9th

I met Bill 8 years ago at the Sea Pines beach club and became friends immediately became friends. He was a fixture of my vacation twice a year and I can't imagine being there without him! I am going in May and will honor him some way with my friend, Gary, while we're we're there! Althought I honor him now! Go rest high my dear friend!

Steve Mack

April 9th

It seems that I knew Bill forever when visiting Hilton Head. We would meet at the Beach Club in the afternoon and then I would be riding my bike back in the dark. Bill, you were a good friend and I will miss those fun times with you.

Becky Wonn

April 9th

I am sad today to hear of your passing. I fondly remember your love of country music and your random "a rose is but a rose" quotes, but most of all, your kind heart, i.e. allowing an elderly woman to pay her legal fees with paper bags full of fresh green beans from her garden and your words of advice to me. Prayers for your family in this difficult time. "

Billy Goodman

April 9th

When my wife and I purchased our house in Sea Pines about ten years ago we of course did not know anyone. We went to the Beach Club and the very first person we met was Bill. I remember him introducing himself and asking " where are you'all from" , when I said Horse Cave, KY he lit up and the friendship was established. On each visit we always were welcomed by him and he made us feel " at home " . His extreme kindness to mankind was expressed in his eyes and smile , he was so special to us and things will never be the same on the deck at the Beach Club, but because of him, his kind spirit will still welcome us there and we will sense his presence. May God be with his family and friends and let's all give thanks for his time on this planet and what he meant to each of us..."Rest in Peace , Bill " sincerely, Billy and Debra Goodman - Horse Cave , KY.

Billy & Debra Goodman

April 9th

Billy and Debra Goodman - Horse Cave, KY

April 9th

"God Bless you Bill "

Parks/Woodson

April 9th

To the family of Bill. Really glad to have met such a special man. He left a legacy of how to treat mankind and how to enjoy life doing it. He will be missed. We are praying for the comfort of the creator for you all.

Gregg Zaffaroni

April 9th

Mayor: You were such a great guy. You made us feel so good always letting us know where you would be at happy hour with Kaylee. The highlight of our visits to Hilton Head was linking up with you and Patsy at the beach club and just enjoying the island and friends.

Jenny and Carroll

April 10th

Dear Patsy, We are so, so sad for you, Julie and Dawn and the family. Our hearts and prayers are with you . Much love, Jenny and Carroll

Lou, Jordan, Campbell and Kip Lacy

April 10th

We are shocked and sorry to hear about the passing of Bill. We will miss seeing him at the Beach Club in the afternoon when we visit Hilton Head. We May peace and love be with all family and friends of Bill. The Lacy Family

Janet Bowen - Graham

April 9th

Peace be with all Family & Friends of Bill. He was one of my favorite cousins & will be missed by all who had shared his fun loving ways. I see all the Bowen Brothers in his face & I'm sure my Father Dale Bowen would agree. Memories will help heal & can never be taken away. Rest in peace "cuz". See u later into the future. Your cousin, Janet

Jennifer Smith

April 9th

Godspeed, Bowen...I'll always remember you.

Jerry P. Rhoads

April 9th

I was shocked and sorry to hear about the passing of my ole M.S.U. tennis teammate and buddy, Bill. My friendship with Bill and our wonderful tennis experiences made my stay at M.S.U. much more enjoyable and memorable. He was a fierce competitor, a good sport and a great friend. "Spear's" photo with our M.S.U. tennis teams rests on the mantle of the cabin which Hig and I own in Lyon Co.---and we were very proud to have him as a friend and teammate. Please accept my most sincere condolences. Jerry

Brad Garrison

April 9th

Wild Willie! Too soon gone. Have a wonderful trip. See you in the club house.

BOB PELLATI

April 10th

A WONDERFULL AND FUN MAN,I WILL MISS HIM. BOB "HILTON HEAD"

Cptn. Larry

April 10th

I am so sorry for your lost. When I first met Bill, 2002, he was friendly and for the time I spent there he was always that way and I greatly appreciated his efforts,and hi sense of humor. I know he will be missed my many.

Rena M Boley

April 11th

Our thoughts and prayers are with family and friends...we love Bill he was such a good person to call a friend. Rena, Kassie and Katie

Blaine Poland

April 11th

Julie, very sorry to hear about your Dad. Like I mentioned before, I felt like I got to know him through your Facebook posts. He sure sounded like quite a guy. Please take care. The Poland Family

Steve Smith

April 11th

Bowen....as a charter member of the South End Gang you stayed true to your colors and focused on the important things in life: baseball cards and bicycles. And worse, now I'll never know what you saw in the Cleveland Indians.

Sue and Bill Cregan

April 11th

Patsy, Julie, Dawn and extended family, we are so sorry for your loss. We know when Bill meets St. Peter he will extend his hand and say "Hi, I'm Bill, how do you like me so far?" He will be missed by all who knew him.

David & Kathy Turner

April 11th

We are sorry for this sudden lose our prayers are with you in this time of sorrow

Steve Miller

April 12th

Patsy, I am so sorry for your loss. I just found out about Bill's passing yesterday and couldn't make it to Flora this morning. Please contact me if you have the opportunity. I would love to speak with you again. It's been a very long time, it seems since last we saw each other. Sheila sends her condolences also and is the one that informed me of Bill's passing. Again, I'm so sorry for your loss and pray that God will comfort you and your family. Steve

Steve & Julie Fandel

April 13th

Bill was a good friend to many and will be sorely missed. He was such a wonderful spirit and enjoyed an ever growing circle of friends at the Sea Pines beach club. He will surely be missed and never forgotten. Prayers and sympathy to Patsy and the family.

Don Guerrettaz

April 13th

I'm sorry for your loss, Patsy. I wish I had got to know you both better, always considered joining you at the Kentucky Derby. Don and Judy

Bob & Arianna McCardle

April 15th

Our deepest sympathy to his wife and family. Our visits to Hilton Head will not be the same without him. We will miss him

Rene Gibbs

April 22nd

So sorry for your loss Julie, Patsy, and Dawn. I have lot of memories growing up across the street from u guys. My thought our with u.

Darrin

July 3rd

I was looking up information for my family's trip to Hilton Head and saw were the Mayor had passed. I was so looking forward to seeing Bill again. As a fellow Kentuckian who shared a love for UK, Hilton Head, and the Beach Club I can honestly say he will be missed during our annual visits. They should make a shrine for Bill at the new Beach Club. It will never be the same. Rest in peace my friend and Go Big Blue!

 

Candles

Jerry and Mary Ellis
Diane Blaydes Prince
Norman Phillips
Elaine Hobbs Wiles
jean taylor
Marilyn Stanford
Office of Michael W. Klobnak
Joe Ellis
James West and family
Jim Yates
Larry Frost
Wire Wilber
M. B. Oglesby
Everett L. Thompson Jr.
JUDIE & BOB POWLESS
Ulanda Bryan
Janet (Schack) Carlock
ANDY, CHRIS, & JOEL POWLESS
David & Judy Bryden
Mandi Kuenstler
Maureen Wineland
Sue and Bill Cregan
Sue (Crown) Gebben
John Oglesby
Maria "Button" Pemberton and Bill Schoonover
Sandy and Willie Thompson
Lenny and Marie Henson
Tom Higgins
Roy and Karen Young
Gene & Betty Pieplow
Doug and Mary Mack, Winston-Salem, NC
Steve Smith
Steve and Lisa
Bob and Tracy Pierceall
Megan Miller, Kelsey Phillips, and Jonathan Miller
Ray Bengel
Cindy copple
K-10....KRISTEN MAHER
THE BEACHCLUB FAMILY
Dennis and Candace Goodman
The Kapszukiewicz Family
Brian Foster
Mike and Candie Belcher and Family
The Etchison Family
Ron & Kathy Miller
Mark Turnipseed
Cindy Fetters (Cincinnati, OH)
Sonny and Linda Ritter
Jerry & Vicky Middleton
The Heath Family
John and Kate Blackford
Pam Benson
Jerry and Sharon Moskwiak
Darca Hatten
Bill Bryan
Jim Etchison
RICK & PAULINE BOWEN
Susan Schmalhausen
Bill & Sharon Porterfield
Linda Rogers - Cashiers NC
Greg & Jill Vaughn
Dennis & Barbara Rohr
Kristin Mailhot Walker & Family
Keith and Robyn Nix
Steve, Carolyn, Kelli & Austin Mack
Dale and Sheila Kincaid
Janet Graham
Larry and Sue Slater
Judy and Gregg
Melissa and Joe
Kim and Gloria Bratton
Carla Taylor
Dan and Sally Sulsberger
Delberta Bowen
Valerie Allen Diesser
Ruthie McGonagil
Steve & Julie Fandel
Don Guerrettaz
Bob & Arianna McCardle
Schiela Yates
Jean Kessel loeffler
Bob Winn

 

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Frank & Bright Funeral Home
and Cremation Services

500 North Main Street
Flora, Illinois 62839

Phone : (618) 662-2141
Fax: (618) 662-4600
Email: [email protected]

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