David Bowen
September 29, 2008
David A. Bowen, 53, died September 29th, 2008 from complications following a stroke while working for the Des Moines Police Department on Saturday, September 27th. Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:30 am Friday, October 3rd at Christ the King Catholic Church with burial following at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Public visitation will be from 12-8 pm Thursday at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home with family present from 4-8 pm.
Dave was born June 6th, 1955 in Des Moines to Chris and Charlotte Bowen. He graduated from Lincoln High School in 1973 and served in the United States Army, honorably discharging in 1976.
Dave joined the Des Moines Police Department on June 6th, 1977 where he was assigned as an officer to the Uniform Patrol and Criminal Investigation Divisions. He was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 1993 and was assigned to the Communication Section, Narcotics Unit, Uniform Patrol and the Traffic Unit. In 2005 Dave was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant, serving in the Office of Professional Standard, Metro Star, and the Traffic Unit. Throughout his 31 year career, Dave was recognized with numerous commendations.
Dave continued his education, graduating with honors in 2000 from Upper Iowa University where he earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Law Enforcement. In 2003, he earned his Masters Degree in Public Administration with honors from Drake University. In December, 2007 he completed the School of Police Staff and Command at Northwestern University.
Dave is survived by his loving wife, Sandi (Zavalla) who share three loving children, Darla (Reggie) Blackwell of Topeka KS, Melanie Cox of Grimes and Jay (Jonnalyn) DuBois of Urbandale; they are blessed with six grandchildren, Paisley, Devin, Jordan, Nate, Jaden & Ethan; his brothers, Gary (Karon), Chris and Steve (Yvonne) Bowen all of Des Moines; his sister, Karen (David) Perry of Jefferson; sixteen nieces and nephews; numerous aunts and uncles and his maltese, Lexus.
Dave was preceded in death by parents Chris and Charlotte, and his sister Elaine.
Memorial Contributions may be made to the Des Moines Police Burial Association.
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Vicki Collings
09/30/2008
Sandi and Family,
I was so shocked to hear of Dave's passing when I just saw him at the reunion. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this time of great sorrow.
With deepest sympathy,
Vicki Collings
Rick and Ronda Gentosi
09/30/2008
Sandy and family ~
We are so sorry for you loss. Our thoughts are prayers are with you.
Love,
Rick and Ronda Gentosi
Loretta Rizzuti
09/30/2008
Sandy and family,
Know that we are with you at this time. When I say, "I know what and how you are feeling". Trust me, I do. There are so many un-answered questions. Answers will come some day, but when - is not ours to question. Dave will truly be missed, he was one of a kind. God had his reasons for wanting Dave with Him. One so young and good to be taken from us is something we will never understand. My heart is filled with much emotion, that I can not express it properly. Time is what you need now. We are here to get thru this together. Rely on others, talk as much as you want to, to whom ever will listen. Keep the good memories alive. Remember all you can, for one day those visions and memories will fade. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Loretta
Richard and Deena Cross
09/30/2008
I can't express how shocked we were to hear of Dave's passing. We can't begin to understand the depth of sorrow you must feel right now. I feel privilaged to have known Dave, and to have spoken to him just recently at our class reunion. Please accept our heartfelt condolences. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Richard Cross
Steve Gregg
09/30/2008
Sandy,
It's just so shocking to see Dave pass when just a week ago we were all partying together at the reunion. We're all feeling your loss. You're in our thoughts and prayers and our hopes for the best for you and your family.