James "Jim" Bowman

James “Jim” Robert Bowman, 86, of McPherson, KS, peacefully passed away on Friday, June 12, 2026, at Via Christi-St. Francis RMC, Wichita.

Jim was born on February 12, 1940, in McPherson, Kansas, to Lester Sexton and Melba Lucille (Johnson) Bowman. He graduated from McPherson High School with the Class of 1958 and went on to pursue higher education at Emporia State University before earning his master’s degree in Economics from Wichita State University.

On December 23, 1962, Jim was united in marriage to Connie Kathlene McQueen. Their loving union was blessed with four children: James, Scott, Kathlene, and Becky. Jim and Connie shared 62 wonderful years of marriage, building a life centered on faith, family, and community, until Connie’s passing on November 9, 2025. They enjoyed many vacations, especially to Colorado, and he brought the grandkids to several outings.

A proud veteran of the United States Navy, Jim served his country during the Vietnam War. Early in his career, he worked for Caterpillar in Peoria, Illinois. Following their move to McPherson, Jim worked two years at Hesston Corporation in Hesston, KS prior to Jim and Connie becoming entrepreneurs, owning and operating McPherson Rental Center, where they built lasting relationships throughout the community.

Jim was a devoted member of New Hope Evangelical Church. His faith in Jesus Christ was the cornerstone of his life and guided his decisions, relationships, and service to others. He was also deeply committed to his community through Rotary International, where he served as an active member and past president. He enjoyed fellowship with others, coffee time with friends and business acquaintances, and later a men's group was an important part of his weekly life.

He is survived by his children, James Bowman (Kelly) of Wichita, KS, Kathlene “Kit” Bowman (Matt) of Tehachapi, CA, and Becky Bowman of Tehachapi, CA; daughter-in-law, Tara Bowman of Topeka, KS; seven grandchildren, Sarah, Robin, Jimmy, Daniel, Tim, Mariah, and Kei; siblings, Barbara Rensner of Wichita, KS and Diane Kolman of North Richland Hills, TX; and many extended relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; and a son, Scott Bowman.

The funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM, Monday, June 22, 2026, at New Hope Evangelical Church with Pastor George Bocox officiating. A visitation and viewing will be from 9:30 AM until service time on Monday at the church. Burial with Military Honors will follow the service at McPherson Cemetery.

To view a live-stream broadcast of the funeral service, please CLICK HERE

Memorial donations can be payable to New Hope Evangelical Church in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.