William McGowan Bowen

William McGowan "Mack" Bowen, 77, of Crawford, died June 5, 2017.
Mack was born to J.O. and Mildred Mann Bowen, and grew up in Decatur, GA. He graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Animal Science from the University of Georgia. He and his childhood sweetheart, Jane Rowland, married in 1960, and began Bowen Farms in Oglethorpe County in 1964. Two daughters, Catherine and Anna, came to bless this union.

Mack loved life and loved the farm. By his careful management he built an outstanding herd of cattle, while maintaining careful stewardship of the land and water resources. Mack was a boat lover, a champion on water skis and snow skis, skilled carpenter, welder, horseman, dog handler, race car driver, and creative thinker. He loved, and was greatly beloved, by his wife, daughters, grandchildren, and extended family and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Jimmy Bowen, sister Margaret Bowen Young , and daughter Anna Bowen Morris. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his brother and sister in-law John and Fay Bowen, brother-in-law Freeman Young, brother-and sister-in law Hugh and Joann Rowland; daughter, Catherine Bowen Drewry, grand children McGowan Drewry, Trey Morris, and Olivia Morris, and many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews. The family is grateful for the care he received the last year of his life at Avery Place in Winterville, and with Gentiva Hospice in Athens.

A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held on Thursday, June 8th, at 11 a.m. at Bass Lake, 60 Blackthorn Rd, Colbert, GA 30628, with remembrances and potluck picnic following. The Rev. Gordon Bienvenue will officiate. Contributions in his memory may be made to Community Christmas of Oglethorpe County, 143 Bowen Farm Rd., Crawford, GA 30630.

Lord & Stephens, East is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com