George K. Bowling

Lieutenant Colonel, George K. Bowling, United States Air Force, passed away on September 18, 2023, two days shy of his fiftieth wedding anniversary. George lived to over 91 years, overcoming a massive stroke in 1999.

After serving twenty-three years in the United States Air Force, he sold insurance for Mutual of Omaha, while attending college to complete his degree. George earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business at the University of West Florida and was General Manager of an auto parts business for several years.

George and his wife had a great life together centered around their church, where they were very active. One of their favorite pastimes was traveling in their recreational vehicles, all across the USA. They served thirteen months as medical missionaries in East Africa; a time they both felt was the most memorable in their fifty-year marriage. A farmer at heart, George particularly loved the years they farmed, growing their own provisions. His favorite plane to fly was the F-105 and he has several decorations from his 250 missions in that fighter aircraft over Vietnam, Asia. Their missions were known as Wild Weasels.

George is survived by his wife, Lynn Butterfield Bowling; his son, George “G.B.” Bowling, II; stepson, Glenn Tatjes (Janeen); granddaughter, Katherine Cosby (Isaac); grandsons, Joren Bowling and Chris Bowling; granddaughter, Kristie Bowling; and great granddaughter, Karley Cosby. George’s son, Jim Bowling, predeceased him by three years and his stepson, Michael Tatjes, followed him in death by two days.

George was one of a large family, most having predeceased him, but he is survived by siblings, Nancee Lee, Odrie Thurlo, Lewis Bowling (Marie); and dozens of nieces and nephews, and their families. A Bowling reunion might average about 100 family members.

Special gratitude and appreciation are offered for Dr. Yvette Novak and her staff for many years of superb care and caring, as well as Emerald Coast Hospice of Fort Walton Beach, whom provided George with wonderful care during his final weeks of life. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, at Immanuel Anglican Church, 259 Indian Bayou Trail, Destin, Florida. Interment immediately follows at 2:00 p.m. at Barrancas National Cemetery in Pensacola, Florida.