Melvin “Mel” Ellsworth Bowker, 88, of Excelsior Springs, MO, passed away Monday, July 21, 2025, peacefully in his home – drinking a cup of coffee, having a donut, and waiting to head to the golf course, just like most days for much of his life.
He was born on January 21, 1937, in Quincy, Illinois, to Melvin and Marjorie (Ellsworth) Bowker.
He graduated from high school and headed into the Air Force ten days after graduation. He was trained as an instrument mechanic. His permanent assignment was at Donaldson Air Force Base in Greenville, South Carolina, to the Blackjack Squadron. He enjoyed the numerous temporary assignments he had all around the world. His favorite location was New Zealand. He flew over the South Pole multiple times. In addition, he played for the base’s baseball team.
After military service, he came home and married the same year. He then began his career as an over-the-road union truck driver. He retired at the age of 55 and started his next “career” as a daily golfer. He enjoyed the life that many dream of: For 33 years, he did exactly what he wanted to do, with whom he wanted to do it, choosing to spend regular
time on the golf course and with family and friends.
Additionally, he was a dedicated fan of the Royals and the Chiefs. Genuinely, the only person many of us knew who watched all 162 Royals games each season – no matter how they played. He was funny, engaging, and often said things that would make you want to shake your head – or possibly put the saying on a T-shirt. We will miss him.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Judy Hees; his first wife, Ruth (Jackson) Bowker; his second wife, Bertha (Windsor) Bowker; a step-grandson, Matthew Hylton; and many dear golfing buddies.
He is survived by his daughters, Venette Brock (Tony Preston) and Lynn Hylton (Russell); grandchildren, Loran (Brock) McDonald (Lloyd), Colin Brock (Kailee LaFollette), Conrad Brock (Shisi Wolff), Lana (Teegarden) Kipping (Brian), Jackson Hylton (Cydnee Pritchard), and step grandson, Marshall Hylton; five great-grandchildren, Lydia, Layla, Ethan, Maelynn, and Owen.
Mel’s Celebration of Life will be held Wednesday, July 30, 2025 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Excelsior Springs Golf Course Club House, 1201 Golf Hill Dr., Excelsior Springs, MO 64024.
The Honor Guard will provide military honors at 6:00 p.m.
If you want to honor Mel, enjoy life and play a round of golf with a whiskey and coke.
Arrangements are in care of Bross & Spidle Funeral Home, Excelsior Springs.
