Joseph Manuel "Joe" Bowman

Joseph Manuel (“Joe”) Bowman, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on September 9, 2024 at the age of 73.  His family is grateful for the care he received from medical staff in Abingdon, Virginia during his brief illness.

Born on November 22, 1950, the eldest child of James and Inez Bowman, Joe was raised in Carroll County, Virginia along with his younger siblings, and graduated from Hillsville High School in 1969.  Possessing a powerful intellect, Joe applied himself to the study of engineering at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, graduating in 1973 with a B.S. in Civil Engineering with Structures Specialty.  Joe treasured his education and the youthful time he spent in college, where he excelled both educationally and personally.  Indeed, it was at Virginia Tech that Joe would meet his best friend, true love, and wife–Amelia (“Amy”) Bowman (née Palmer), whom he adored (and who adored him) for the remaining 52 years of his time on Earth.

Upon his graduation and marriage to Amy, Joe embarked upon his career as an esteemed engineer, which would span more than four decades and several industries.  He began as a structural engineer with the firm of Hayes, Seay, Mattern & Mattern of Roanoke, Virginia.  Joe then relocated to East Tennessee, where he spent several wonderful years starting his family and continuing his many professional contributions.  In Tennessee, Joe worked as a structural and design engineer with Powell Construction Company of Johnson City, and as a structural engineer with MTI of Kingsport. 

Subsequently, Joe returned with his family to Virginia, and would reside in Abingdon for the rest of his life.  In Virginia, he assumed the role of Branch Manager for the Marion office of Dewberry and Davis.  He also served as Director of Operations for the Daniels Company of Bluefield, Virginia, and later as an Area Construction Manager for the Virginia Department of Transportation.  Finally, prior to retirement, Joe worked as Director of Research for Hapco of Abingdon.  During the course of his career as a consummate engineer, Joe obtained numerous patents, left an indelible mark on the projects under his direction, and positively influenced the field of structural engineering as a whole.

Following his retirement, Joe enjoyed the solitude and peace of his Abingdon home, while maintaining a strong interest in, and concern for, the world beyond.  He developed a profound understanding of many economic and political subjects, which he loved to discuss. His sharp wit and keen sense of humor was an ever-present part of his personality.

Beyond his professional achievements, Joe often expressed that his family was his greatest joy.  He was a devoted and wonderful father to two children and a doting grandfather to five grandchildren.  Joe’s love for his family was evident as he enthusiastically facilitated the interests and passions of his children.  He remembered with great fondness his participation in the Abingdon Little League and his committed involvement as an Abingdon High School Band parent.

Throughout his life, Joe displayed an ability to create, repair, improve, and improvise solutions under nearly all circumstances.  No mechanical problem seemed beyond his ability to solve.  He was an avid collector, restorer, and creator of fountain pens, with a particular appreciation for their craftsmanship, materials, and history.  Additionally, his prowess in fabricating fountain pens from scratch was recognized widely (albeit anonymously) by means of the World Wide Web.  In his spare time, he enjoyed the meticulous art of woodworking, often creating beautiful pieces that showcased his patience and precision.  Joe filled his home with thoughtfully-crafted, handmade case furniture and tables.  He also held a strong passion for automobiles, which he enjoyed throughout his life.

Joe’s legacy is one of dedication, creativity, love, and—his most valued human virtue—honesty, which he displayed at all times throughout his work and personal relationships.  He will be remembered for his contributions to his profession, his nurturing spirit as a father and grandfather, and his passion for diverse hobbies.

In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by his brother, Frederick Bowman.  He is survived by his brother, Timothy Bowman (Tami), and sister, Anita Semones (Jason).  Also left to cherish Joe’s memory are his wife of 49 years, Amy Bowman; his children Katherine C. Scott (Eric) and Joseph S. Bowman (Allison); and his grandchildren, Simon Scott, Andrew Scott, Lily Scott, William Bowman, and James Bowman.  Joe’s thoughtfulness, creativity, and wisdom will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A celebration of Joe’s life will be held, graveside, on September 21, 2024 at 11:00 AM at the Knollkreg Memorial Park, with Reverend James Dick officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of the giver’s choice in Joe’s honor. 

Frost Funeral Home & Cremation Services is honored to serve the family of Mr. Bowman.