Obituary of Merlyn Clarence Bowker

Merlyn Bowker, 88, of Duluth, MN, passed away peacefully on June 18, 2021. He was born February 8, 1933 in Parks, Nebraska to Rose and Elmer Bowker. He grew up in Big Springs, Nebraska with his 4 brothers and sister. In his youth, he was honored with a certificate of heroism, signed by J. Edgar Hoover, at the annual Wyoming-Nebraska Boy Scouts of America Alliance for saving the life of one of his friends who was drowning. After excelling in high school sports, following graduation he enlisted in the Air Force where he was stationed in Duluth and specialized in radar mechanics. During that time, at a USO dance, he met the love of his life, Mary Bittner, and they were united in marriage on July 9, 1955. After his military service he attended UMD where he received his degree in Geology and Geography; he later received his Master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin Superior. He was junior high science teacher for 32 years in the Duluth Public Schools; in addition to his teaching duties, he worked as an audio-visual coordinator and also coached track.

All through his life, Merl enjoyed all types of hunting and fishing. He spent many summers fishing on Lake Superior with first mate Mary on their boat, the Marlynn. He was a member of the Lake Superior Steelhead Association and the Lake Superior Power Squadron. His hunting activities led him to probably his favorite hobby, trap shooting. He was active in the Superior, Cloquet, and Jack Meade Gun Clubs. He and Mary spent many weekends traveling the state attending competitive shoots; they frequently spent their anniversary at the annual state shoot in Alexandria. He continued his love of teaching by mentoring young shooters. Travel plans often were worked around the opportunity to attend trap meets.

He was a kind man and a wonderful father, husband, and neighbor. He doted on his grandkids and granddogs. During snowfalls, he was known to plow out not only his own property, but those of the alley neighbors and any one in need. He was known throughout the family and wherever he went as a man of few words but with a quick sense of humor and a love of fun.

He is preceded in death by his parents, siblings, daughter Janet Pattison, grandson Matthew Pattison, and granddaughter Jennifer Lundeen. He survived by his wife of nearly 66 years, Mary; daughters Marcia and Michelle Bowker, also of Duluth, and 3 great-granddaughters.

A visitation will be held from 2-3 p.m. on Friday, June 25, followed by a Celebration of life at 3:00 at the Cremation Society of MN at 4100 Grand Avenue. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Kid’s Closet and / or Hope United Methodist Church.