Life story

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Chad Bowman, a beloved husband, son, brother and uncle passed away surrounded by family on October 18, 2023 at the age of 50. He was born in Ft. Benning, Ga to adoring parents, Carter Bowman and Ellen Campbell Bowman. Later his family would grow to include a doting stepmom, Jan and cherished younger brother, Joey.

The early years of his life brought him to Hawaii but his heart always told him he was a Floridian. He enjoyed the beauty and wonder that could be found throughout the state. It’s also where Chad’s sense of adventure began. His fondest memories were of camping trips, bird hunting, surfing and any type of boating.

After graduating Luther High School in 1992, he had the opportunity to backpack around Europe. This concreted his love of travel and meeting new people. Chad was not the academic type, more a student of life. He prided himself on his street smarts, even if the did fail him at times, but if you wanted to talk about history, astronomy or geography he would be fully engaged. He also had an uncanny ability to remember every place he had visited, every road he traveled and describe it in a way that those he encountered knew he had taken that path.

Chad’s easygoing attitude and willingness to talk to strangers led him into the hospitality business. This is where he met his loving wife, Lori Kellett, in 1998 and married in 2002. Chad was fiercely proud of his family, the one he was born into and the one that came through marriage. Often times he would boast about their accomplishments and acts of service to anyone who would listen. His loss will be felt by all of those that survive him. Wife Lori Bowman, Mother Ellen Roberge, Father and Stepmother Carter and Jan Bowman, Brother Joseph Bowman, Father and Mother-in-law Kevin and Candace Kellett, Brother-in-laws Greg (Helen) Kellett and Brian (Laurie) Kellett and many loving Aunts, Uncles and Cousins.

As an adult, one of Chad's proudest moments was the purchase of his home. He loved to brag about what a great deal he got. It's also where he and his wife, Lori, created a sanctuary for themselves and their two beloved pets, Ralfie and Boots. While they were not blessed with children, they did have an abundance of nieces and nephews that gave Chad the opportunity to be the "Cool Uncle". Watching them grow up, become adults and being a part of it brought so much joy. May he forever hold a place in their hearts. Ryan, Lexi (Jon), Avery, Grayson, Dylan (Allee), Gabriel, Jacob, Christin, Brandon, Aidan, Zane, Cayden, Jeremiah, Lilly, Jameson, Sebastian, and Eli.

Throughout his journey Chad wanted to experience all life had to offer. From fancy dinners to backyard barbecues, preferably with a nice fire burning, if it was with family or friends then "game on”. There were so many outings to the beach, kayaking trips, Super Bowl parties, pool league weekends and 4th of July fireworks. Not to mention the various concerts, plays, Magic games and annual golf tournaments.

Chad also loved being a part of the celebration of others. Being invited to family and friends weddings, anniversary parties or birthdays were very special to him. For himself, he preferred a quieter more intimate affair. For one time, however, he may have to be okay with being the center of attention. Chad lived life unapologetically and this created very special memories that will last a lifetime for his wife, family and friends.

We would like like to invite all that can attend, to a Celebration of Life for Chad Bowman. To be held on December 11th, 2023 at 5:00pm at the VFW Post 4287, 3500 S. Goldenrod Rd, Orlando, FI 32822. It will be a joyous occasion filled with stories, pictures, laughter and some tears."