Donald Andrew Bowen
1940 - 2026
April 23, 1940 – March 2, 2026
Donald A. Bowen, 85, took the checkered flag as he completed his final lap on March 2, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, laughter, and stories that will live on for generations.
Born on April 23, 1940, Donald grew up in Woodlawn, Virginia, with a natural curiosity about how things worked and a fearless spirit that would define his life. A loyal and devoted husband, a loving father, a fun-loving Papa, a cherished brother, uncle, and steadfast friend, Donald’s greatest pride was always his family.
In his younger years, Donald was a racer at heart—both on and off the track. As a former racer and lifelong racing enthusiast, he carried a competitive spark and a deep love for the roar of an engine. That passion never faded. Whether working on his classic car, attending car shows, or admiring a well-tuned machine, racing was woven into the fabric of who he was.
By trade, Donald was a certified welder with the Boilermakers Union, a career that showcased both his skill and work ethic. Among his proudest accomplishments was helping build the Alaskan Pipeline—a testament to his strength, craftsmanship, and dedication. He was known far and wide as “Mr. Fix-It,” the man who could repair just about anything with patience, ingenuity, and the right tools.
Retirement did not slow him down. Instead, it opened the door to new adventures. Donald embraced life fully—traveling, camping, exploring the outdoors, and setting out on countless adventures across the United States to his favorite destinations, including Cades Cove in Tennessee, as well as Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon. He found joy on the open road, under open skies, working in his garage, and in the company of those he loved most. He never met a stranger and could captivate any audience with a good story—usually told with a twinkle in his eye and perfect timing.
Donald is survived by his beloved wife of sixty-one years, Colleen Rigdon Bowen; his sons, Donald Andrew Bowen Jr. and Wayne Edward Bowen (Kay Bowen); his daughter, Karen Colleen Whitteker (Mark Whitteker); his grandchildren, Steven Chance Hall, Keri Eve Dowis (William Burke Dowis), Ashley Nicole Bowen (Jordan Muhammad), and Jacob Edward Bowen; and his great-granddaughter, Mara Rose Dowis; as well as his special fur babies, Goober and Sadie.
He is also survived by his sisters, Jane Fulk and Debra Bowen; his brother, Billy Bowen; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.
Mr. Bowen was preceded in death by his loving mother, Essie Sawyers Bowen; his maternal grandparents, Sidney Alfred Sawyers and Flora Jane Sawyers; his sister, Patty Moseley; his grandson, Andrew Bowen; and many other dear relatives.
Donald’s legacy is one of loyalty, resilience, determination, and heart. He taught those around him the value of hard work, the importance of family, and the joy of living life with passion.He will be deeply missed and forever remembered as a champion and a legend in the lives of all who knew and loved him.
“The Legend” lives on in every rev of an engine, every well-worn tool, and every story told with a smile.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his honor to The American Diabetes Association or The American Heart Association.