Eilene and Girls, My deepest sympathies at your loss. I have had the pleasure to work with Don and to get to know more of his personal life during my single visit to Peoria. Don has been an inspiration both professionally and personally, and will continue to be. I so wish I could attend his service but I will not be able to because of a prior commitment and being too far away. My thoughts will be with you on that day.

 

Ludovic

I have so many memories of Don as he was someone I've known since the day I was born!  We grew up together and even once ran away from home when we were supposed to be taking a nap to hide behind the neighbors tree - only to be found and of course...take a nap.  We had great parties when we were in high school and used to get to stay up late together and watch some of Dad's old favorite movies (Some Like it Hot; The Flim Flam Man and so many more).  Having Don for a brother has been a gift and no words can express how deeply I loved him and how much I miss him!  Simply greatful to have had the pleasure of being his sister!  Until we are together again...

Donnie was a clone of his Dad. Look at those eyes and hairline! They both had minds that never ceased to search out ways of doing the same thing in a different way. Then along came all those sisters! And finally a brother. There was a gang of boys in church who, at times could on occassion not be found. OK, what had they thought up this time? But Don was found, looking so innocent. To this day I will never know if he was innocent, or just smart enough to not get caught. To the entire Bowen family. God created that bunch, and He had a plan. Eventually that plan came into fruition. The mark left on my heart will remain forever. How proud so many "friends" in Macomb became part of the Bowen family. Bowens, thank you for sharing Don. We know God will hold you all in the palm of His Hands.

Eileen and Girls- Bob and Andrea, Steve, Sue, Anita, Barb, Julia----

Although Don and I had drifted apart since our high school days in Macomb, seeing his WONDERFUL smile in these pictures, brings back so many WONDERFUL memories---I have read his blog. seen his youtube video of 10/11/09 and realize now, more than ever, he was a truly amazing person. I know that he is now in the best place he could possibly be and am confident he will be watching over you and patiently waiting until we are all united with him again. Our family extends to you all our heartfelt sympathy and be assured of our continued prayers for you!! 

 

Mike, Melissa, WIlliam, Madeline, Gabriel and AnnAstasia Inman 

To Don's Family - I'm so sorry for your loss.  I went to high school with Don and although we didn't run in the same circles at that time we re-connected through Facebook.  I was on his mailing list and I was privileged to have known him; his faith and courage were an inspiration to many.  Again my condolences to all of you.

Although we did not know your son, we want you to know that you and your entire family have been in our thoughts and prayers. You were so kind to us in putting me/us on your prayer list, we want you to know that we hold you in our prayers, as well.

Don was so dear to me when I was in school at Western.  He was my mentor and my friend.  He took time out to work with students and I was lucky to be one of the students he volunteered to help on campus.  He was working at this time as a programmer.  I still have some of the illustrations he drew out for me when I was living at the dorm.  

 

Don was the most enthusiastic person I ever met.   He would laugh with Fred and Jim in the apartment and not be able to stop.   He had such passion for life.  I wanted to be like Don.

 

Don helped me with my testimony speech for a state, college, Christian conference.   I finally got it.  I had it memorized to be exactly 5 minutes.  Giving that speech well was one of the biggest moments of my life.  Don helped me on it for over a month.  He taught me to believe. 

 

I will never forget his faith and his passion.  He was one the most incredible men I have ever met.  I loved his visits to my dorm room when I was on campus.  My parents where getting a divorce and I had no money and not much hope.  Don made me believe in the impossible.  Don was one of the reasons I stayed in school.  I went on to graduate with high honors.  Don was my cheerleader. 

 

He was so wonderful.  I loved how he lived his life.  I loved how he had zeal to do God's will.   I loved his faith. 

 

Don played a big part in my student life.  I will always be thankful how he took the time to love me when I was at WIU. 

 

He was amazing.  I will miss him.  I can still hear him laughing.  I have really wept for him writing this.  What passion he had.  It was contagious. 

 

"Big, real big, bigger than you can ever imagine, that's how I wanted to live my life"

 

This was Don to me.  He had a big life and I wanted my broken life to be like his.  He inspired me.   

 

 

I am so sorry for your loss. I did not know Don personally but I will forever be grateful that I was at Northwoods Community Church the Saturday night that Don sang the song Hold Fast. He moved my heart and soul in such a way that I can not explain. I also attend another church on Sunday mornings but that Sunday I decided to make the turn and once again that weekend attend Northwoods so I could hear Don sing that song again. Every time I hear that song I will remember him and the strong way he fought this battle. I will always regret that I did not take the time to tell him how he affected me but I'm sure he knows now. When ever I would see him and think of speaking to him he was always surrounded by friends so I didn't. I so wish we could attend his service but we will not be able to because of a prior commitment.

Barb and family -

 

I was saddened to read of your brother's passing.  I didn't know your brother but from all of the testimonials I just read, he sounded like a very caring individual.  I will be praying for you and your entire family during this time that you will find peace in knowing that He is with our Eternal Father, in pain no more.

 

God Bless!  Your Chi O sister,

Denise

Eileen and girls... Our hearts hurt. We weep and grieve with you. Not sure whether to be sad or happy. We are glad that Don's battle is over... but sad for your loss and sad to have lost a friend. Your husband and father was a tremendous witness of faith, hope and love of our God and Creator. And the five of you have been a tremendous example of strength, endurance, love, patience and faithfulness. Thank you! We know how much he loved you all... you have that and many other memories to carry with you for the rest of your lives. When I close my eyes... I can see him with that terrific smile looking down on you. We love you more than you will ever know. We pray that God will fill your void with loving friends and family... with outstanding memories of great times... and a powerful knowledge that you will be reunited again one day. We are here for you to help in any way we can. With our deepest sympathy, Pat, Lana, Tyler and Kyle Murphy Neil and Becky Smith