February 11, 1932 - March 14, 2026
William Ira Bowling, 94, passed away peacefully with his loving family on March 14, 2026 after a brief illness.
Bill was born to the late William Ira Bowling Sr. and Belle Marie (Slater) Bowling at home on February 11, 1932. Bill lived a full life marked by dedication to his country, his career, and above all, his family. He was a brilliant, quick-witted man with eyes that danced mischievously and a ready smile for those around him. He followed current events closely but rarely offered strong opinions, preferring to share knowledge and wisdom generously while living frugally and giving his time abundantly.
Bill proudly served his country during the Korean War era, drafted into the U.S. Army. He served as Military Police at Fort Leonard Wood and Camp Crowder in Missouri, and later as a Technician Corporal with Company C of the 31st Engineering Battalion at Camp Carson in Colorado. In 2016 he was deeply moved by the gratitude and reverence he experienced on a Honor Flight to Washington D.C. with many other military veterans.
Following his military service, Bill built a 25-year career at Toledo Scale (now Mettler Toledo) as an electrician and later an electrical engineer. He specialized in industrial batching and weighing systems for industries including auto glass and rubber. Known for his ingenuity, he traveled the world installing these systems in places like China, Brazil, and all across the United States. After retiring from Toledo Scale, he continued as a consultant for several years.
Bill was married to the love of his life, Rhea (Michaelson) Bowling, for 71 cherished years until her passing in January 2025. He was a devoted family man who raised strong, independent children and delighted in playing with his grandchildren.
He is survived by his children: Mara (Bill) Patterson, Mark Bowling, Dianne Bowling, Paul Bowling, and Eric (Tricia) Bowling; grandchildren: Anne Patterson, Julie Jacobs, Josh Bowling, Jessie Bowling, Caroline Bowling, and Will Bowling; great grandchildren Caleb and Cadence Jacobs and Chloe Bowling; siblings: David Bowling (his surviving brother), along with many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Rhea; and siblings James, Janice, and Belle.
Bill's passions brought joy to those around him: sailing his Hobie Cat on Little Long Lake, tackling quick (and sometimes daringly inventive) home and auto repairs, playing cards with family and friends, reading under a blanket in his La-Z-Boy chair, and savoring his wife's pot roast and gravy—or really any food smothered in gravy but especially beef. In recent years, he enjoyed wintering in Sarasota, Florida, playing bocce ball and basking in the sunshine. He attended Mass weekly and found deep fulfillment in family laughter, shared meals, and quiet moments of connection.
Bill's legacy is one of love, ingenuity, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to his family. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew him.
The family welcomes memories and stories shared in celebration of his life. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Shriners Children's or your favorite charity in his name.