But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. - Isaiah 40:31
Obituary
Larry Edward Bower, aged 85, of Henderson, North Carolina, passed away on 14 July 2024. Born on January 25, 1939, Larry's journey was defined by service, commitment, and love. Larry was a proud husband to Donna Sue Bower (née Stark), with whom he shared a life imbued with family values, enduring love, and countless cherished memories. Larry was predeceased by his parents, Stanley Clifford Bower and Dorothy Bower (née Hammond), and his sisters, Barbara Clampitt and Judy Cunningham.
A retired Air Force Colonel, Larry dedicated much of his life to serving his country with honor and distinction. His military career was not only a testament to his commitment to duty but also to the values he held dear: courage, integrity, and respect.
Larry’s educational and career pursuits spanned a number of institutions and affiliations which he held dear. After graduating from New Washington High School, Larry earned a bachelor's degree in Engineering at Purdue University, where he also served in the ROTC. He earned a master’s degree from Troy State University, and also attended Squadron Officer’s School, Air Command and Staff College, and the College of Naval Warfare.
Together, Larry and Donna raised three daughters: Lori, Dana, and Carlie. As a father and grandfather, Larry's love knew no bounds; his family was his ultimate pride and joy. After his distinguished military career, Larry embraced civilian life with the same fervor. Among his many pursuits, he served his community as a City Parks director, shared his wisdom as a substitute teacher, and found spiritual fulfillment as a proud member of the First Christian Church Lookout Class in Scottsburg, Indiana, of which he served as president for many happy years. He was an active member of the Kiwanis Club, for which he served in offices including Lieutenant Governor. He was a lifetime member of the VFW, a member of the City Beautification Committee, and a recipient of the Mayor's Good Neighbor Award of Scottsburg, reflecting his unwavering dedication to being a supportive and positive presence in the lives of others.
In Henderson, North Carolina, Larry and Donna made a new home where they cultivated rich friendships and became beloved community members. They were members of the Clearview Church of Henderson, and also worshiped virtually at the Freetown Church of Christ of Indiana. Larry was also a member of the American Legion of Henderson.
Larry’s life was rich with simple and profound pleasures. He was a man who relished the dignified aura of an excellent cowboy hat, the serene beauty of a lake, and the engaging vigor of a good political debate. His evenings often featured the History Channel, and he never tired of a well-formulated war documentary. Through the years, he was never far from his cherished dogs, who were always honored members of the family.
Larry's legacy is carried on by Donna, their daughters, and the many friends who were touched by his integrity, kindness, and unyielding devotion. While we mourn his loss, we also celebrate the rich tapestry of a life well-lived, marked by unwavering love for family, enduring commitment to duty, and a gentleman's grace.
Photos of Larry
Memories and Condolences
We had similar get-togethers in North Carolina, again multi-generational, including a Christmas-time visit with snow on the ground that I'll always remember. Larry and Donna were so generous with their time and their love.
I'm sure you all are missing him terribly now, but those memories are precious. Wishing you all the best during this difficult time
Also when I was little, he convinced me that he could not say the word ‘strawberry’. I tirelessly stepped him through syllable by syllable, but would you believe that he never could quite get it right?
Dad loved to tell kids that they had garments on their backs, and delighted in their shock and surprise as they tried to figure out what exactly garments were. Or he may ask them if they knew their “gozentas,” enjoying their puzzled faces until he elaborated (“you know, like how many times five gozenta ten - which is two!”)
Dad loved to use quotes amply from the family lore, such as exclaiming while driving down the road, “There’s a dead sack!” (a quote from Lori’s childhood), or “I’m STUFFED!” after a good meal (a favorite quote grandson Billy was a toddler).
I will never be able to call without expecting him to pick up and say, “Carlie-co!” and ask me how my car is running. That was how he said he cared.
Thank you for being my Dad.
Favorite Things
"Best I've got...", declared strategically after the other team calls trump.
"You make 'em, I'll rake'em!", a rallying cry to cheer on his partner
"You sure you want to do that?", a scare-tactic (sometimes a bluff?) to intimidate the other team from an unfavorable call for him.
Dallas Cowboys
He may have also been known to have a strong opinion or two about politics...
"Home again, home again, jiggity-jig" - said upon returning home from a trip of any duration
"I'll shut the gate for ya" - proclaimed after someone passes you too quickly on the road. (Correction: Donna said this. Larry never let anyone actually pass him on the road.)
The Old Rugged Cross
Neil Diamond, Gordon Lightfoot, Kris Kristofferson, and classic Country (perhaps especially to tease Donna, who is not such a fan of this genre)
Virtual Service
In Lieu of Flowers
Born from the tragedy of 9/11, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation carries out its mission to “do good,” by providing mortgage-free homes to Gold Star and fallen first responder families with young children and by building specially-adapted smart homes for catastrophically injured veterans and first responders. Tunnel to Towers is also committed to eradicating veteran homelessness and helping America to Never Forget September 11, 2001.
Memorial donations can be made directly to the foundation at https://t2t.org in Larry’s name, including the option to send an e-card (please use remembering.larry.2024@gmail.com).
