Bruce Jess Bowen

Bruce Bowen, 70, passed away December 20, 2024, in Kirkwood, Missouri. Born January 12, 1954, in Southern California, Bruce lived a dynamic life marked by entrepreneurial spirit and love for family. An entrepreneur at heart, Bruce’s career spanned many industries and chapters, from real estate to motivational speaking to corporate sales to construction. His natural charisma, ability to close a sale, and unwavering work ethic were great superpowers throughout his professional life. Bruce's curiosity and capability in many areas made him a source of knowledge and support for family and friends alike. As a self-taught builder and fixer of nearly everything, he never surrendered to a tough job and found joy in sharing his diverse knowledge and skills with others. He was a patient coach and teacher of all things woodworking and home repair. Life’s journey took him from his roots in Southern California through several homebases over the decades, eventually landing in the St. Louis area, where he spent the most recent chapter of his life with his beloved partner Rita. Bruce was a lover of live music, comfortable behind a drum set and on a dance floor. He loved going to concerts and taking Rita dancing. He enjoyed the outdoors and felt most at home on the ocean, having spent many years boating and scuba diving. He also had a supernatural ability to connect with dogs, having had many four-legged best friends throughout his life. His beloved black lab Drake was his best friend and is living out his golden years with Bruce’s daughter’s family. While Bruce had many accomplishments to celebrate through his life, he was most proud to be a dad to his daughter, Bristel, and “Papa Bruce” to his two granddaughters, Willa and Abigail. Bruce was the youngest son in a blended family of six children. He is survived by his daughter Bristel and her husband Justin, along with their daughters; his partner Rita and her children Mandy, Michael, and Carrie, along with their children. He also leaves behind his brothers Tom and Ed and their families. Bruce’s beloved mother Louella joined him in heaven shortly after his passing. Bruce was preceded in death by his stepfather Bruce, his oldest brother Dennis, his oldest sister Connie, his sister Victoria and his niece Marnie. Bruce's magnetism, generosity of spirit, and enthusiasm for life's adventures left a mark on all who knew him. His legacy lives on in the countless special memories he created and lives he touched. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Foundation for Peripheral Neuropathy in tribute to Bruce.

Bruce Jess Bowen

January 12, 1954 - December 20, 2024