Gary M. Bowler, Sr., 75, passed away on October 28, 2024, at Baystate Medical Center in Springfield, Massachusetts. Born on July 26, 1949, in Holyoke, Massachusetts, he was the son of the late Thomas J. Bowler, Sr. and Jeannette (Peloquin) Bowler.
Gary was a lifelong resident of Chicopee, where he attended Kirby Elementary School and graduated from Chicopee High School. He spent his career with Eastern Etching and Mr. Panel in Springfield, before moving into construction site maintenance and window cleaning with his best friend, Dan Shaw, following his retirement.
A devout member of Assumption Church, Gary's faith was an important aspect of his life. His hobbies included hunting, and he cherished the time spent with family and friends. Gary was known for his quiet, observant nature, often bringing people together with his succinct and witty comments. Despite the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease and Frontal Temporal Lobe Dementia in his later years, he remained a source of strength and inspiration, especially in how he instilled a love of life in his children.
Gary is survived by his loving wife, Judy M. Bowler, whom he married in 1967; his children, Gary M. Bowler Jr. and Kimberly Bowler Packish and her husband Phil Packish of Martha’s Vineyard; and his cherished granddaughter, Madison Packish. He leaves behind his other siblings, Kathleen Pierog, Deborah Bowler, Pamela VanTassel, and Brian Bowler. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers, Kevin Bowler and Thomas J. Bowler, Jr.; and his sisters Noreen Rouillard and Carol Lafleur.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Williamsburg Funeral Home for immediate family only. Gary’s life was marked by his dedication to his family, his work, and his community, leaving behind a legacy of love and resilience.
Williamsburg Funeral Home in Haydenville MA was honored to assist the family with his cremation.