Melvin John Bowen

After a full life lived of character, kindness, and quiet strength, Melvin John Bowen entered the presence of the Lord, peacefully while at home on June 6, 2025, at the age of 73. Mel was preceded in death by his parents, Elizabeth and Thomas Bowen Sr., and his brother, Thomas Bowen Jr. Survivors include his loving wife of 54 years, Susan Marie Bowen; his son, Eric Alan Bowen and his wife April; his grandchildren, Gavin Reid Bowen and Brooke Marie Bowen, all residing in Moreland; his brother, Terry Lee Bowen and his wife Jane; two nephews, Bret and Kevin Bowen; two nieces, Chrissy Mathews and her husband Dave, and Roxanne Accetta and her husband Chris. In 1981, Mel pursued training and certification as a professional Firefighter/Paramedic and proudly served the City of Sunrise Fire/Rescue, Sunrise, Florida for 13 years. He also achieved certification by NFPA for Aircraft, Rescue & Firefighting. Melvin was recruited in 1994 by the National Science Foundation to establish the first civilian fire department at McMurdo Station, Antarctica, located at the South Pole. Mel's passion for design and attention to detail later became an integral part of the creation and operation of his son's business at Five Star Group, Inc. These actions are supported by the outcry of young professionals paying tribute to him for their success. Mel's talent and creativity in woodworking and stained glass will live forever with many pieces of artwork proudly displayed in homes filled with love. Love for his family was the heart of who Mel was. He cherished time spent with loved ones, sharing stories, laughter, and lessons from a well-lived life. Whether you knew Mel as a hardworking professional, or a dependable neighbor, he left an impression with his gentle demeanor and steadfast integrity. He approached life with humility and grace, never seeking attention, but always showing up when it mattered most. A funeral mass will be held on Friday, June 13, 2025, at 12:00 PM conducted by The Reverend Father Henry Atem, Celebrant, at St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church, 3 Village Rd., Newnan, GA 30265. The family will receive friends the hour before the funeral mass in the church vestibule. The celebration of Mel's life will continue with a luncheon following the funeral mass at the family residence, 2161 Bear Creek Rd., Moreland, GA 30259. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that those who wish to honor Melvin's memory consider performing an act of kindness in his name: The Shriners Children's Burn Center, nationally recognized and accredited by the American Burn Association and the American College of Surgeons for saving Pediatric lives. www.shrinerschildren.org/donate. McKoon Funeral Home & Crematory, 770-253-4580

Melvin John Bowen

December 27, 1951 - June 6, 2025