John Riley Bowland's Obituary
John Riley Bowland was born on May 31, 1928, in Dallas Texas, the eighth child of nine sisters and brothers, to Vera Elizabeth Riley and Herbert Bowland. He joined his sisters Pauline, Virginia, Marian, Mary Pearl, Frances, Betty and Margaret, and brother Davis in God’s loving arms on May 31, 2019, his 91st birthday. John was predeceased as well by his daughter Sherry and son Bruce, and his former wife but lifelong friend, Betty Hale Bowland. John is survived by his sister-in-law Wanda Bowland of Tyler and generations of grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.John graduated from Forrest Ave High School in May 1946 and joined the Marine Corps the next day. Following boot camp in San Diego, he was preparing to ship out to the Pacific front when World War II ended. Upon return to civilian life in Dallas in 1947, he worked for Dallas Power and Light until 1959, followed by several years at Texas Instruments as a qualified electrician. In 1962, John began 31 years with General Motors in its Arlington automobile assembly plant. In 1968 John took a leave from GM and began a year’s service in the Peace Corps as an electrification instructor in Ecuador. He taught members of small mountain communities how to bring electrification to their towns and villages, always referring to his time there as the experience of a lifetime.John was always quick with a joke and a laugh and was a tremendous support to his family members as they aged together. He was a loyal member of the American Legion and the NRA. His love of dogs, particularly of German Shepherds, brought him to delight all of his adult life, and he gave a home to many beloved dogs over the years. Special thanks go to Barbara Neal, a wonderful caregiver, and friend.Memorial service will be Wednesday, June 5, 2019, 12:30 at Restland Memorial Park, Wildwood Chapel.
What’s your fondest memory of John?
What’s a lesson you learned from John?
Share a story where John's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with John you’ll never forget.
How did John make you smile?