It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mike Bowman, an esteemed and beloved business leader who served the Dallas Fort Worth area for more than 50 years.
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mike Bowman, an esteemed and beloved business leader who served the Dallas Fort Worth area for more than 50 years. Mike was an accomplished salesman and long-time leading broker of one of the largest real estate organizations in the world, Century 21. He joined the Century 21 brand in 1975, being among the first brokers to join the franchise. He was a pioneer and visionary real estate entrepreneur, who early on understood the power of a large corporate brand like Century 21, which was the first real estate franchise in the United States. After joining Century 21, Mike went on to build a very successful business and lead a team of real estate professionals who have served the Dallas- Fort Worth area for 50 years, with Century 21 Mike Bowman, Inc. being named the #1 Century 21 in the world 18 times.
Born on September 28, 1942, and raised in Washington, Indiana, Mike’s journey was marked by hard work and perseverance guided by faith in God, love for family and country. He descended from a lineage of humble and hardworking Americans, among whom was a Mayflower passenger and patriots of the American Revolution. A loving Christian family with a deep history of traditional roots helped form “The American Spirit” in Mike at an early age which would guide him for the rest of his life. His “can-do” and “resilient” attitude would inspire others to pursue their dreams and contribute to a better world.
Mike was the only child of Morris, a conductor for the B&O railroad, and Arilla, a loving mother and housewife. Together, his mother, father and he were baptized at the First Christian Church in Washington, Indiana when he was in High School. His path led him to Vincennes University in Vincennes, Indiana. He met his future wife, Jan David, when he was 21 and the two fell in love and were soon married. Mike and Jan moved to the Dallas - Fort Worth area in 1963.
Mike’s professional path was defined by his innovative mindset and leadership qualities. Starting with a career as an engineer working for Bell Helicopter in 1964, and then transitioning into real estate in 1969, he quickly ascended into owning a real estate business where his vision and dedication were instrumental in its expansion into a leading national real-estate company.
Mike’s life was also rich in personal joys, especially those shared with family and friends. An avid outdoorsman, he relished fishing and hunting and spending time at the lake entertaining those he loved. Mike and Jan were married for 57 years and were lifelong friends and partners who enjoyed supporting each other and their family. Together, they raised three children, Dave, Trisha and Jeff. The children loved their parents deeply and the countless moments of support, laughter and love that defined their family life.
Mike Bowman lived a life marked by ambition, compassion and dedication to building a thriving community in which he lived. His legacy will continue to inspire and influence – a testament to a life well-lived and a future brightened by his contributions.
Mike is preceded in death by his wife, Jan. He is survived by his son, Dave and wife Cindy; daughter, Trisha and husband Donny Smith; and son, Jeff. He is also survived by seven grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren and many cousins, nieces and nephews that loved him dearly. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to all the friends and business partners who were a part of their father’s life, as well as all those who provided care during his illness.
Visitation will be at Lucas Funeral Home in Hurst on Wednesday, March 26th from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm. There will be a funeral service at the First Presbyterian Church in Lawrenceville, IL on March 29 at 10:00 am, with burial to follow at Lawrenceville City Cemetery in Lawrenceville, Illinois. A Celebration of Life Service will be April 11 at Cross Timbers Church, 119-US 377, Argyle, Texas 76226 at 11:00 am. Friends can gather for condolences with the family beginning at 10:30 am. Funeral Services are being provided by Lucas Funeral Home, 1321 Precinct Line Road, Hurst, Texas (817) 284-7271.
The Emmons-Macey & Steffey Funeral Home is in charge of local arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to The Shriners Children’s Hospital in Dallas or the H-E-B Education fund.
