Bruce Lloyd Bowen

Bruce Lloyd Bowen, 68, of Avoca, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on the evening of January 23, 2021, following his second round of fearlessly battling cancer. He is preceded in death by his parents and sister Linda Taylor. Bruce was born November 25, 1952, in Toronto, Canada, the son of Albert Lloyd and Phyllis Mae McDougal Bowen. He is survived by his wife, Diane Thompson Bowen of the home; sons, Corey Bowen (Susan) and Jason Bowen; two grandchildren, Alexandra and Emmalee Bowen; and brother, Brian Bowen. Bruce was a Persian Gulf War veteran who dedicated over 44 years of selfless service to our country. During the early 1970's, he served in the United States Army in Maryland and South Korea. After completion of his initial service commitment, Bruce and his family moved to Arkansas where he joined the Arkansas Army National Guard and was subsequently hired into an Active Guard Reserve position where he retired in 2005. After Bruce's military retirement, he continued to serve and transitioned into an Arkansas Army Guard Family Readiness position supporting Arkansas' home station and deployed soldiers and their families. During retirement, Bruce loved traveling with family and spending time with his two grandchildren, great-nieces and nephews, and friends. Bruce absolutely loved his family and loved helping others. He was a servant leader, loving husband, amazing father and grandfather, phenomenal brother, favorite uncle and great-uncle, and loyal friend. No matter the situation or circumstance, Bruce would be there to provide council and help navigate whatever obstacle was in the way. He made everyone around him better and inspired them to be their best. Our world lost a warrior and hero; however, his legacy will live on through the countless lives he influenced through his example and the love of everyone who knew him. Visitation will be 5 to 7 p.m., Thursday, January 28, at Benton County Funeral Home, 306 N. 4th, Rogers, Ark. Private military graveside service will be Friday, January 29, 2021, at the Fayetteville National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hope Cancer Resources https://hopecancerresources.org/donate.aspx. Online condolences to: www.bentoncountyfuneralhome.com.