Mickey Joe Bowers

Mickey Joe Bowers, born on September 13, 1943, in Rochester, Indiana, to Ralph and Gretchen Eileen (McQuiston) Bowers Sr., passed away on May 21, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his family, whom he loved dearly. Mickey was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, leaving behind a legacy of love and dedication to his family.

Mickey graduated from Akron High School in 1962, where he showcased his athletic abilities as a basketball and baseball player and was also the prom king. After completing his high school education, he attended Manchester College.

On November 28, 1970, Mickey married Joetta Salyers, and together they shared fifty-four wonderful years filled with love, laughter, and an abundance of shared memories. As a devoted husband and father, Mickey supported his family in every possible way. He was a constant presence at sports events, whether as a coach or as a nervous parent (often found pacing), always cheering from the sidelines.

Mickey embarked on a distinguished career, dedicating forty-two years of service as a Layout Journeyman at R.R. Donnelley in Warsaw, where he was known for his unwavering commitment and expertise. He retired in 2006, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism and craftsmanship.

Mickey had a deep appreciation for the outdoors, particularly enjoying fishing. He cherished many adventures in Canada, where he would take friends and family to share in his passion for fishing. Additionally, he was an ardent fan of the Cincinnati Reds and the IU Basketball, passionately supporting his teams.

The loving memory of Mickey Joe Bowers will be forever cherished by his wife, Joetta Bowers, Silver Lake; children, Aaron (Elisa) Atkins, Mobile, Alabama, Jeremy (Kristy) Bowers, Fort Wayne, Chris (Tasha) Bowers, Laketon, Courtney (Brooke) Bowers, Warsaw, and Katie (Mitchell) Tam, Rochester; grandchildren, David Atkins, Morgan (John) Williams, Katelyn Bowers, Dylan Bowers, Keegan Bowers, Cory Bowers, Kelsey (Mason) Arick, Amarah Frieden, Grayson Bowers, August Tam, Natalie Tam, and Colton Singleton; great-grandchild, Eleanor Arick; and sisters, Cindy (Jeff) Barnett, Titusville, Pennsylvania and Mindy Gearhart, Warsaw. Mickey was preceded in death by his father, Ralph Bowers Sr.; mother and stepfather, Gretchen Eileen and Donald Gearhart; sister, Elaine Shepherd; and brother, Ralph Bowers Jr.

Family and friends may call Saturday, May 31, 2025 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester, Indiana. Funeral services will begin at the conclusion of calling with Pastor J.P. Freeman officiating. A private graveside will take place at Laketon Cemetery in Laketon, Indiana.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Mickey Bowers, memorial contributions may be made to Paradigm Health & Hospice, 8904 Bash Street, Suite B, Indianapolis, Indiana 46256.

The family of Mickey Bowers has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.