Ryan Bowles, age 46, of St. Louis, Missouri, passed away on Friday, November 15, 2024. Born in St. Louis on February 23, 1978, he is survived by his loving parents, Joe and Linda (McCauley) Bowles; his loving sister, Missy (DeShon Thomas) Bowles; his cherished son, Caelen; and his beloved “bonus” son, Brayden Glotfelty. With special mention to his lifelong best friend, John Murphy.
His grandparents, his Uncle Jimmy Bowles, Aunt Debbie (Bowles) Walker, Aunt Patsy (McCauley) Kirschbaum & Cousin Sean McCauley, preceded Ryan in death.
Ryan graduated from Kennedy Catholic High School in 1996 before earning his undergraduate degree from Northwest Missouri State University in 2000. Ryan then went on to become a respected leader holding multiple leadership positions in packaging, procurement, and logistics where he influenced and mentored countless individuals. He was admired for his genuine compassion, sensitivity, and kindness, as well as his competitive spirit.
That competitive spirit also drove his love of sports – especially University of Kentucky Basketball, the New York Yankees, and the St. Louis Cardinals. Regardless of the team or sport, Ryan was always eager to take in a game with his family and numerous friends.
At the heart of Ryan’s story was his relationship with his son, Caelen. More than father and son, they were kindred spirits whose bond transcended ordinary understanding. Ryan was born to be a father, and in Caelen, he found his life’s greatest purpose and joy. Their connection was a testament to the purest form of love – one that knew no bounds. He poured his heart into setting a loving, Godly example for him, always striving to guide him with faith and love. Ryan’s faith in God shaped his life, and he was steadfast in showing and sharing God’s love with everyone he met.
1 John 4:16 “…God is love, and the one who abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.”
SERVICES: A memorial service for Ryan is scheduled for 11am on Saturday, December 7th, 2024 at the St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 3009 High Ridge Blvd, High Ridge, MO 63049. Immediately following the memorial, a celebration of his life will held at Pupillos Banquet & Event Center, 3033 High Ridge Blvd.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to NAMI St. Louis: www.namistl.org and/or Annie’s Hope: www.annieshope.org.
Ryan’s compassion, kindness, faith, and love for God and others will forever be remembered by those fortunate to know him.
Dear Family and Friends of Ryan,
I am deeply saddened to hear about the loss of Ryan. He was not only a colleague of mine at Vi-Jon, but also a friend with whom I had the pleasure of working closely for many years. Ryan had a unique ability to bring levity and care to any situation. His sense of humor and positive outlook were truly infectious, and he made our workplace a brighter and more enjoyable environment. He would always tell me that I was too serious (which was true), and steer us to solutions – making sure everyone came along on the journey. With laughs along the way…
Ryan was a great team-mate, and I learned so much from him over the years. His dedication, kindness, and unwavering support for all who knew him will always be remembered. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
With heartfelt condolences,
Katie Duffin
So sorry for the sudden loss of your son and brother. Thoughts and prayers to the family..
Ryan was considered by many as a friend. I personally considered him my best friend. Upon meeting Ryan the first time, I knew we were going to be close. After working with him for many years, I began to see things in him that I strived to be myself. Always helping, listening, guiding, and loving. This man was one of a kind. Ryan could always lift me up on the highest plain, on my worst day. He made me a better person, just being around him. Love you buddy.
We are sad beyond words. For 40 years, ever since Little League, Ryan was the best Best Friend to my son. We considered him family and he was thought of as a brother to my kids and Uncle Ryan to my grandkids. We had the privilege of watching Ryan, the little boy, grow into Ryan, the man. As a man of faith, Ryan was loving, caring, giving, and kind. We’ll miss everything about Ryan – especially his smile, warm hugs, and his “Love you guys.” We know you’re in heaven, Ryan, but you’ll be forever missed here on earth. And to Joe, Linda, and Missy, we’re praying for you and we “love you guys.”
Our heart goes out to the Bowles family. We pray that Ryan is joining his Creator on his new journey. May God’s peace be with each of you and may his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, rest in peace.
My condolences to the Bowles family. They are all such nice people and Ryan also was very easy to talk to and be around. God bless them.
Though I did not know Ryan, he sounds like an amazing person. With Joe and Linda as parents I would expect no less. Please accept my sincere condolences on this tremendous loss. Keeping the entire family in our prayers.
I had met Ryan several years ago through a friend and have always loved his fun and outgoing spirit. My thoughts and prayers go to Ryan’s family and little boy. I know Ryan loved his son dearly. May Ryan find peace in Heaven and know he was loved by many.