Patrick L Bowers

Patrick L. “Coach” Bowers, 88, Green Bay, passed away April 21, 2017, with family by his side. Born on August 29, 1928, he is the son of the late Fred and Julia (Rentmeester) Bowers, the second youngest of thirteen children. He was a graduate of Central Catholic High School. Pat began working but was soon drafted to service in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict and served for 2 years. On June 6th 1953, Pat married the former Geraldine Brice at Saints Peter and Paul Church. He worked at Proctor and Gamble for over 40 years. Pat was a longtime member at Saints Peter and Paul Church where he volunteered at many fundraisers and for religious education. He was a Knights of Columbus of Saints Peter and Paul member #55052 and of the Knights of Columbus Honor Guard member #5382. Pat also volunteered at St. Vincent De Paul. He enjoyed reading, playing cards, trips to the casino and watching the Green Bay Packers. Pat loved his visits with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Pat was affectionately referred to as “Coach” by many of his friends and family. This nickname was given to him by Jean’s husband, Mike. Mike went to just about every Packer home game with Pat during the dismal decades of the 70’s and 80’s when the Packers struggled. As the Packers funneled through a host of coaches, Pat always felt he had the answers; ranting and raving throughout every visit to Lambeau Field. During one particularly frustrating game, Mike just glanced over and said, “Okay Coach, let him have it!” and he was the “Coach” from then on.

Pat is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Gerry; four children, John (Nancy) Bowers, Jean (Mike) Berken, Karen (Steve) Petasek, and Kathy (Jesse) Paider; 8 grandchildren, Mike (Lysti) Bowers, Jason (Kris) Bowers-VerVaeren, Emily (Robb) Weidemann, Ben (Courtney) Berken, Adam (Lindsey) Petasek, Krista (Greg) Makos, Tom Bader, and Lauren (Derek) Ouradnik; 7 great grandchildren and 3 more on the way; sister, Arlene Larschied; two sisters-in-law, Shirley Bowers and Carol (Jack) Vetter; many nieces, nephews, and close friends.

Visitation at Malcore (East) Funeral Home, 701 N. Baird St, Wednesday, April 26th, from 4 pm until 7pm. Knights of Columbus service at 6:30 pm and a church wake service at 7 pm. Visitation will continue on Thursday, April 27th at Malcore (East) from 9 am until 10:30am. Mass of Christian Burial at Saints Peter and Paul Church Thursday at 10:30 am with the Rev. Anthony V. Cirignani, OFM officiating. Visit malcorefuneralhome.com to send a condolence to the family.

Special thanks to the staff of the 4th and 5th floors at Bellin Hospital, Unity Hospice and to Mom for the excellent care she gave to Dad.