Donald Lewis Bowen, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on August 8, 2025 surrounded by the love of his family. Born in Niagara Falls, New York to Donald Leo Bowen and Vera Gwendolyn Bowen (Potter), Don moved to northern Virginia as a teenager, where he built a life defined by service, humor, and unwavering love for those closest to him.

Don was the beloved husband of Shelley Bowen (Owens) and the proud father of Matthew Bowen and Brittany Greene (Bowen) and her husband, John Greene. His greatest joy was his granddaughter, Sariah Vaughn-Bowen, with whom he shared a special bond filled with laughter, stories, and Girl Scout adventures. He was the cherished brother of Bob Bowen and sister-in-law Susan, and a proud uncle to his four nieces, Cheryl, Michelle, Heather, and Shannon, and their families.

A police officer and lifelong public servant, Don never met a stranger. His strong character and honesty touched everyone who knew him. He had a dry wit that could lighten any moment, a talent for storytelling, and an endless collection of tales from his life that he loved to share.

Don was a breakfast enthusiast, had a special fondness for Trefoils and maple syrup, a passionate music lover of The Beach Boys, Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, and The Beatles, and a collector of and expert on military and historical memorabilia. He enjoyed classic westerns, the adventures of Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone, and the humor of Seinfeld. A former Boy Scout, he was especially proud of his granddaughter's accomplishments in Girl Scouts.

A meteorology enthusiast, Don could often be found tracking storms and discussing the weather with the same enthusiasm he gave to his many hobbies. He was an avid dog lover, devoted to his pets and his "grand-dogs," and believed that animals brought out the best in people.

Above all, Don loved his family fiercely and without condition. He will be remembered for his warm heart, sharp mind, and the countless ways he made life richer for those lucky enough to know him.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made in Don's name to Panther Ridge Conservation Center at ⁦https://pantherridge.org/donate/⁩. Don was very proud of the work his daughter and son-in-law do with Panther Ridge and would have wanted that work to continue.