WESTFIELD – Carl R. “Buddy” Bowers Jr. of Westfield passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Friday July 15, 2016 at the Governor’s Center. Carl was born in Westfield on July 27, 1927 to the late Carl Bowers and Virginia (Kotowski) Bowers and was a lifelong resident of the city. He attended local schools and was a graduate of Westfield High School class of 1945. Carl proudly served his country with the United States Navy during WWII. He joined the Westfield Fire Department in 1951 and rose to the rank of Deputy Fire Chief retiring in 1983 after a 32 year career. Carl was devoted to his work of firefighting and was highly respected by his fellow firefighters. “Buddy” even in his retirement, perked up at that first sound of the engine leaving the station and found such joy in any chance he had to recall the days on the force with his former crew. He looked forward each summer to the annual BBG where stories could be shared of times on the force “back in the day”. Carl was a bit of a renaissance man, he was a hunter, a fisherman, golfer, wood carver and traveler. Devoted to his beloved Boston Bruins, Carl was always good for a shout at a game to cheer on his team! In his retirement Carl and his wife of 64 years, Jean, traveled in their RV and he was proud to say that he visited all 48 continuous states, taking many beautiful pictures of their trips that he later used when he delved into many more talents he enjoyed in retirement including painting, wood carving and picking up the harmonica with the “HarmoniKats” during his winter stays in Frostproof, Florida. Carl was a proud founding member of the “Breakfast Club” for the Class of 1945 and looked forward to his many 1ST Wednesday’s of the month breakfasts with his friends at Friendly’s. Carl was fond of his time residing at the Arbors as well as the many extended and “special” friends he made during his stay there. Carl leaves a son, Craig Bowers and his wife, Lisa (Kaitlin and Erik Carl) and was predeceased by his wife Jean (Olsen) Bowers and a son, Gary (Amber and Loni). He leaves 4 cherished grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. The family extends a heartfelt appreciation to all the staff of the Governor’s Center for the comfort and care provided to Carl during his stay. Carl, along with his wife, Jean, will be interned at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Agawam, MA. At the convenience and privacy of the immediate family. Contributions in Carl’s memory can be made to the Activity Fund c/o The Governor’s Center, 66 Broad Street, Westfield, MA. Firtionadams.com
