David Bowlin
Dec 3, 1933 - Jul 6, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of David Andrew Bowlin, a beloved father, stepfather, and papa, who finished his earthly life July 6, 2025, in Hugo, Oklahoma, at the age of 91. Born on December 3, 1933, in Tulsa, Oklahoma to Andrew Jackson Bowlin and Mildred Pauline (Cox) Bowlin, and he lived a life filled with love, resilience, and adventure.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his devoted wife, Doris Elaine (Hutchings) Bowlin, two stepdaughters, Rhonda Trickler, and Kelly Walker, his sister, Patricia A. Chambers, and his grandson, Jarrod Wolfe. His memory will live on through his loving family, including his son, Michael D. Bowlin of Mountain View, Arkansas; his son, Chris A. Bowlin of Vilonia, Arkansas; his daughter, Jennifer L. Bowlin of Mountain View, Arkansas; his stepdaughters, Laura Tafoya of Owasso, Oklahoma, Tina Trickler of Sapulpa, Oklahoma; one nephew, Randy Chambers of Broken Arrow, and his niece, Melanie Willard of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. Dave had multiple grandchildren and great-grandchildren. One grandson and two great-grandsons were named after him and carry his middle name.
David was a man of many talents and interests. He attended Oklahoma State University (Oklahoma A & M) from 1952 to 1956 on a wrestling scholarship. He showcased his athletic skills at 115 pounds in the Division 1 NCAA Tournaments, placing 2nd in 1955 and 4th in 1956. This competitive spirit and dedication carried over into his professional life, where he served for 22 years as a Recreation Therapist III for the State of Oklahoma at the Hissom Memorial Center in Sand Springs, Oklahoma. David was known for his kind heart and unwavering commitment to helping others, making a lasting impact on all who crossed his path.
In his personal life, David was an avid outdoorsman. He found joy in nature while hunting, fishing, and floating serene streams and rivers in a canoe. The outdoors not only brought him happiness but also created lasting memories with family and friends, who joined him in his adventures.
David was a devoted member of the community and attended church at Victory Life of Hugo, Oklahoma, where his faith and involvement in the church were a testament to his character and beliefs. His sense of community extended far and wide, touching the lives of those around him.
A celebration of David's life will be held on Monday, July 21, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Victory Life of Hugo, Oklahoma. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at Memorial Park Cemetery in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Friends and family are invited to sign the guest book or send private condolences at
www.mtolivefh.com.
Mt. Olive Funeral Home
303 N. 2nd St. Hugo, Oklahoma 74743
Published by Tulsa World on Jul. 17, 2025.