Dates
Bruce Wayne McKowen passed away unexpectedly on July 2nd, 2024, in San Angelo, Texas at the age of 66. Born on November 29th, 1957 in Sacramento, California, Bruce was the beloved son of Maurice McKowen and Amelia Pospisil.
Bruce’s childhood was filled with adventure and learning, growing up with his siblings Theresa, Karyne and Patrick. Spending time with family and friends around Northern California, he developed strong bonds with many people including Sheila Parisena. He attended a variety of schools in the Sacramento area including sitting in on some classes at Sacramento City College and UC Berkeley where he indulged his love of chemistry and medicine.
Bruce’s dedication to his country was evident through his 20 years of service as a Medical Laboratory Craftsman in the United States Air Force where he achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant earning two Air Force Achievement medals and an Air Force Commendation medal.
On May 30th, 1992, Bruce married Cindy Renay Rowland, sharing over three decades of love and partnership. Together they raised two sons, Christopher and Alexander and were blessed with two grandchildren, Anastasia (Neysa) and Rebecca (Becky).
A man of many talents and interests, Bruce was involved in numerous organizations including the San Angelo Amateur Astronomy Association, West Texas Space Vaqueres, San Angelo Friends of the Library and the East Concho Volunteer Fire Department. He had also supported the Boy Scouts of America through Troops 36 and 321, McDonald Observatory as a volunteer, the local radio club and the Clay Bird Association. In addition, Bruce was continuously learning and kept busy with interests in computers, photography, military and aircraft history, archeology, gaming, electronics, and 3D printing. In his spare time, “Papa’s Workshop” repaired numerous toys and gadgets for his grandchildren, friends and family.
Bruce’s life was filled with extraordinary experiences. He attended Woodstock and saw Jimi Hendrix perform the Star-Spangled Banner, dined with Jacques Cousteau and was a childhood friend of Ronald Reagan (Ronnie) Jr. He met “Pappy” Boyington, had Pope John Paul II bless California during Easter Service at the Vatican, and interacted with renowned astronomers Clyde Tombaugh and David Levy during the years he attended the Texas Star Party.
Bruce is survived by his devoted wife, Cindy Renay McKowen; his son Christopher Phoenix McKowen with granddaughters Anastasia Renae McKowen and Rebecca Kayleen McKowen; his son Alexander McKowen with wife Jessika Lynn McKowen; his mother Amelia (Amy) McKowen; his siblings Theresa Tarbox with Rick Tarbox, Karyne Kindred with James Kindred and Patrick McKowen as well as numerous nieces and nephews; and his dear friends Mike & Betty-Jo Switalski, Jess Buck, Kevin Mace, Howard (Robby) & Ginni Roberts, Joe & Lana Lynch, Royce Key and many others. Bruce was predeceased by his father Maurice McKowen.
A Come and Go Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, July 22nd, 2024 from 3:00pm to 6:00pm at Harper Funeral Home in San Angelo, Texas. Bruce will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia at a later date.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who has offered prayers, condolences and support during this difficult time.
Family and friends are invited to bring photos to his Celebration on the 22nd to be included on a photo board. Online condolences can be shared at www.harper-funeralhome.com.