Michael “Mike” L. Bowlin, 67, of Polo, passed away peacefully with family by his side on Sunday, May 14, 2023 at Serenity Hospice and Home in Oregon, IL.
Mike was born on September 11, 1955 in DeKalb, IL, the son of Reece & Betty (Short) Bowlin. He grew up in Forreston and Polo with his best friend and brother, Larry. He graduated from Polo Community High School in 1973. He had two beautiful daughters, Angie and Kayla, with his former spouse Christy who remained a co-parent and friend. He was an avid baseball player and excelled at pitching, even receiving opportunities to be scouted by minor league baseball scouts. Along with baseball, he enjoyed playing in various men’s softball leagues where he made countless friends. Throughout his life, Mike held many jobs that he loved including working for McKean Masonry where he earned the nickname “Bones”, Imeco/York International, and most recently PCI Pharma Services in Rockford where he worked up until his cancer diagnosis. Mike was known for his great sense of humor, his love for Stevie Ray Vaughn and the St. Louis Cardinals, and most importantly his undeniable pride and love for his girls whom he referred to as Sweetie and Goof.
Mike is survived by his daughters, Angie Bowlin and Kayla (Zach Quaco) Bowlin of Polo; mother of his girls and lifelong friend, Christy Bowlin of Polo; grandpup, Oakley; nieces, Meghan Bowlin and Haleigh (Justin) Thibault and great nephew, Camden Thibault all of Blue Springs, MO; special aunts, Irene Short of Polo and Linda (Pete) Meyer of Adeline; uncle, Homer (Glenna) Bowlin of Morristown, TN; as well as numerous beloved extended family members including those from his previous marriage; and many friends from all walks of life.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents; parents; brother, Larry Bowlin; uncle, David Short Sr.; as well as numerous beloved extended family members including those from his previous marriage.
The family would like to give a special “thanks” to Serenity Hospice and Home. The staff there is incredible and their dedication and compassion during such a difficult time never went unnoticed.
A celebration of life will be held on Friday, June 2, 2023, from 5:00-7:00pm at Polo Family Funeral Home, 110 E. Dixon St., Polo. A short graveside service will follow on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at 10:00am at Fairmount Cemetery in Polo, where he will be laid to rest with his parents.
Condolences may be sent to pffh.condolences@gmail.com.
