Robert Wayne Bowen

Robert Wayne Bowen, 58, of Ballinger died at his home Thursday, December 23, 2010
after a courageous 45-year battle with diabetes.

Robert was born in San Angelo, Texas June 8, 1952. He was preceded in death by his son, Michael Evrett Bowen; his mother, Billie Mae George, and his father, Troy Webb Bowen.

He is survived by his loving wife of 27 years, Sharon Bowen; one son, Willie Covington and wife, Libby, of Ballinger; daughters, Chrysti Cate of Salisaw, Oklahoma, Elizabeth Barrow, and Cathy Jo Cook both of San Angelo, and Michelle Baird of Goldthwaite; one sister, Diana Collins of Grape Creek; and his mother-in-law, Agnes Parker of Ballinger. Also surviving are 10 grandchildren, three nieces, three nephews, three great-nephews, and two great-nieces.

Robert attended Lakeview High School, and later Concho Trade School, and was a certified welder. When he moved to Ballinger, he worked for Runnels County Precinct #1 and Acme Sheet Metal before being employed by the City of Ballinger from 1983 to 2010. He worked as a paid fireman, was the first Park Manager of the new Ballinger Lake, was a City Park attendant, and worked at the City Recycling Center for the last several years.

Robert was a dedicated member of the Ballinger Fire Department, retiring after 15 years of service in August, 2010. During his time in the department, he served as a relief driver, pump operator, training officer, and safety officer. He was a past member of the Runnels County Horse Club, served as a Rabbit Show Superintendent for the San Angelo Stock Show, and a Tom Green County 4-H Rabbit Club leader. He served as a volunteer with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for 12 years, conducting deer surveys in Runnels County, and he was a life-time honorary member of the Lakeview F.F.A.

Visitation for family and friends will be Thursday, December 30 from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at Lange Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held Friday, December 31 at 10:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Ballinger. Honorary pallbearers will be members of the Ballinger Volunteer Fire Department.