Michael L. Bowman, 54, died of service connected disabilities April 9, 2004 at his home in Riverside where he has resided since 1989. Mike was a twenty-year veteran of the Marine Corps, having retired as a Master Sergeant in 1990. Mike's Marine Corps career included three meritorious commendations, and two meritorious promotions. He was also awarded a top-secret clearance and served as Presidential Crew Chief during the Reagan era. Concurrent with his military career, he obtained his commercial pilots license and a degree in airport management. He was active in Amateur Radio and served as area coordinator for MARS for Southern California through the early 90's. Upon retiring Mike worked for Boing Aerospace as a technical instructor until 1995. He was a lifetime member of the DAV and very active in veterans' rights issues. In 1990 Mike started his own company "Western Creations" where he produced and marketed instructional videos for country western dance, taught dance, and performed as a Disc Jockey. Mike was affiliated with the "Brandin' Iron" in San Bernardino as a disc jockey and web site manager. His wife of 38 years Helen, one daughter, Andrea McClain, one son Baron Bowman and one grandson Noah McClain all of Riverside, survive him. His mother Ilene Barney of Pensacola, Florida also survives him. Services will be held at Arlington Mortuary located at: 9645 Magnolia Avenue in Riverside, with the viewing from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM on April 15 and services on April 16 at 1:00 PM. Interment will follow immediately at Riverside National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to the Riverside Chapter of Disabled Veterans at: 4351 University Ave., Riverside 92501.
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