John "Jack" Paul Bowler

John "Jack" Paul Bowler, a respected and much-loved member of the Winchendon, Massachusetts community, passed away peacefully on May 20, 2024. Born in Gardner, Massachusetts on October 17, 1936, to the late Gordon A. Bowler, Sr. and Cecile A. (Sirard) Bowler, Jack was known for his adventurous spirit, loving nature, witty charm, and creative talents. As Helen Keller once said, "Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all," and Jack lived this to the fullest, embracing each day with a zest for life that was contagious to all who knew him.

Jack excelled in his chosen field of woodworking, co-owning, and operating Toy Town Boats, Inc. with his father and brother, George. His motto was sum float and sum don't He was a talented boat builder, and his creative flair was evident in the custom kitchen cabinets he crafted during the winter months. He was also a dedicated serviceman, serving the 508th Airborne RCT and helping reorganize the 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, KY. Jack was proud to be a longtime member of the American Legion, VFW, and DAV. His commitment to his country was recognized with the National Defense Service Medal, the Senior Parachutist Badge, and his designation as an Expert Rifleman. 

Despite his many accomplishments, what mattered most to Jack was his family and the animals he adored. His late wife, Janice M. Bowler (Doucette), was his partner in life and in their joint venture, the Colonial Haven disabled veterans home. Jack also found joy in his hobbies of woodworking, skydiving, watching sports, and spending time with his beloved cat, Bella. As Mark Twain once said, "Humor is mankind's greatest blessing," and Jack's wit brought laughter and light into the lives of those around him.

Jack is survived by his granddaughter, Jenna Nolette who was his in-home caregiver until the time of his passing, and her fiancé Vangelo Mendez, daughters Christine Birt, Bridgette Nolette, and Alicia Bastarache, and sons Michael and William G. (Garnett) Bowler. He is also survived by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; his sister, Donna Mae Bowler, and brothers Ronald and Donald Bowler; and several nieces and nephews. Jack was predeceased by his parents, his wife Janice, his son, Alexander Bowler, his brothers George and Gordon Jr., and his sisters Theresa Maliska and Cecile Bowler. 

A celebration of Jack's life will be held at the Winchendon American Legion Hall Post 193 on Saturday, June 8th, from 12-4 pm. In keeping with Jack's love of storytelling and shared memories, you are encouraged to leave your favorite memories of Jack and upload photos to his memorial page. Jack's life was filled with love, adventures, and laughter, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him at www.stone-ladeau.com

The Stone Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central Street, Winchedon, MA 01475.

Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor, and Melissa A. McQuaid, funeral directors.