It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to Donald E. Bowersox. Born Dec. 6, 1935, he was the beloved son of the late John and Esther Bowersox (Gearhart).

Don attended Beaver Vocational School and, in 1953, joined the U.S. Navy. Leaving his hometown of Port Ann, he traveled to Sunbury, where he boarded a train to Bainbridge, Maryland, for basic training. Don often shared fond memories of his time in the Navy, including his four years of service aboard the Net Tender USS Marietta. His duties took him to many places, including Cuba, where his ship laid nets in the harbor to deter unfriendly vessels.

After completing his naval service, Don decided to continue his career in the military by joining the U.S. Air Force, serving for 18 years. During his time in the Air Force, Don obtained the rank of Master Sergeant, a testament to his leadership and dedication. Though the journey had its challenges, it also offered unique opportunities, including assignments across the globe. Among these were his two deployments to Vietnam and Thailand during the Vietnam War.

In 1960, while stationed in Germany, Don met and married the love of his life, Maria (Marieluise Holzmann). Together, they built a life full of adventure and love. With a growing family, they returned to the United States and later completed two tours in Spain. During this time, Don earned the prestigious U.S. Air Force Commendation Medal in recognition of his exemplary service, exceptional leadership, and unwavering commitment to duty.

They also experienced life in Istanbul and Izmir, Turkey, where Don and his family endured and grew stronger through the challenges of living abroad.

After retiring from the Air Force in 1975, Don and his family settled on the beautiful Isle of Que. He built their family home and began his second career at the Selinsgrove Center, where he worked for 22 years until his final retirement. Retirement, however, didn't slow him down. Don cherished his role as "Mr. Mom" to his beloved grandchildren, Tana, Garrett, Maggie, Greta, and others. He was always present, lovingly caring for them while their parents worked. His grandchildren will deeply miss their dear "Poppop."

Don also loved spending summers with family at his favorite beach in Cape May, a tradition he never missed. He delighted in hosting his visiting German family, proudly sharing the beauty of many states and special places across the U.S.

Don is survived by his wife of 62 years, Maria and their loving family, son, David Bowersox and his partner Sue, and daughter Ashley; daughter, Judy Widmaier, her son Garrett (Maggie) and their children, Boe and Beckett, and her daughter Greta; and daughter, Cindy Frymoyer, her husband Troy, and her daughters, Tana (Aaron) and their child Brexton, and Maggie (Michael).

In Germany, Don is survived by his brother-in-law, Hermann, along with two nieces and two nephews.

He is also survived by his sister, Helen (Jim) Camp, and many nieces and nephews. He is remembered fondly by his favorite cousin, Roger Lee, and many other cousins.

Don was preceded in death by his brothers, Harold (Neida) and Andrew (Dora); his brother-in-law, Ernst (Silvia); his German in-laws, George and Viktoria Holzmann; and six exuberant aunts.

Above all, Don loved his wife and family. Providing for them and building a strong foundation for their lives was his greatest purpose. His wisdom, strength, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A viewing will be held Friday, Jan. 24, from 10 to 11 a.m. at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 112 Fairview Drive, Selinsgrove followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. with Father Joshua Cavender as celebrant. Full military honors accorded by the Selinsgrove American Legion Post 25 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6631 will follow the service at the church.

Entombment will be in Orchard Hills Cemetery, Shamokin Dam.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choosing.

Arrangements are by the V.L. Seebold Funeral Home, 601 N. High St., Selinsgrove.