John W. Bowler, 71, of West Bolton passed away on March 7th after a long illness. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 38 years, Brenda (Streeter) and a proud, loving father to Cody and Dylan, along with Dylan's partner, Erika Bombard. He was also the father of Shane and Chad from a previous marriage. Nothing brought John greater joy than visits from his grandchildren, Michael and Maranda, who affectionately called him "Papa John." He cherished family gatherings and the chance to reconnect with his many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Born on August 14, 1954, in Salem, Massachusetts, John was the son of the late Richard Bowler, Jr. and the late Elizabeth (Vray) Bowler. He grew up in Boxford, MA, until age 16, when he moved to Vermont in 1970. Though the move created physical distance between siblings, it never diminished their closeness. Over the years, countless trips were made between Massachusetts and Vermont to stay connected. John leaves his beloved siblings and their spouses, Wayne and Jane Bowler of Tewksbury, MA, and Caryl and Vinny Burridge of Ipswich, MA. He also leaves extended family members Kenneth Bowler of Vermont; Pamela and Bill Darby of Essex Junction, VT; Mark and Daniele Roussel of Leesburg, FL; and Bruce and Kristy DeGuise of Colchester, VT. John was also predeceased by his best friend, Greg Acebo.

A 1972 graduate of Mt. Mansfield Union High School, John was a standout hockey player. He earned a place on the 1970–71 Coaches' NIHL All-Star First Team and was invited to a tryout session with the Montreal Canadiens. As recently as February 2024, Mt. Mansfield honored him during an alumni game ceremony recognizing his remarkable achievements on the ice. John was a man of many skills, working alongside his father in heating and air conditioning, as well as in construction and satellite installation.

When his health allowed, John was always ready to lend a helping hand. He enjoyed deer hunting with his late father-in-law, Dick Streeter, fishing with his boys, and riding his four-wheeler around the mountain. A natural storyteller, he treasured time spent with his many friends. He also had a soft spot for the family pets, remembering Lefty and Grrr, and most recently enjoying the company of Dodger, Cody's dog.

In retirement, John shared a passion for gardening with Brenda. Together they grew abundant crops, turning their harvest into pickles and jelly preserves that they sold at local farms, businesses, and craft shows. Much of what they made was also gifted to family and friends.

John may have been a little rough around the edges, known for speaking his mind without a filter, but never with unkind intent. It was simply part of his charm. He will be remembered for his honest and generous heart, his quick wit, his stubborn streak, and his old-fashioned respect for others.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.