Steven Robert Bowser

Steven Robert Bowser

Steven was born January 17, 1951, in East St. Louis, Illinois, to Robert Lee Bowser and Betty Jean Arnold Bowser. He was preceded in death by both of his parents and his stepfather, Philip J. Leininger.

Steve grew up in East Alton, Illinois, but life took him on a journey far beyond his hometown. Love took him to Colorado, where he and his wife, Jean, built their life together. His career with the Bureau of Reclamation took the family from Colorado to New Mexico, where he spent more than 20 years dedicated to his work. Throughout his career, Steve received several leadership awards in recognition of his service and commitment. After retiring, he and Jean returned to Colorado. Following Jean’s passing, Steve returned to Illinois to be closer to his family.

Education was important to Steve, and he earned two bachelor’s degrees and a master’s degree during his lifetime. He was also someone who believed in serving others. He worked as an EMT, volunteered as a firefighter, and was involved in the Boy Scouts during his younger years.

Steve had a quiet personality and a famously dry sense of humor that could catch people off guard. He didn’t always say much, but those who knew him well learned to appreciate the wit behind his comments. He found comfort in the familiar and could watch Harry Potter or NCIS over and over again without seeming to tire of either. He loved going to the movies, riding motorcycles, visiting national parks—especially Yellowstone—and, perhaps most importantly, ice cream. He also had a deep love for his dogs and took great care of them.

Steve was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jean Bowser, whom he married on April 12, 1980, in Alton, Illinois. The two shared many years together, and Jean remained an important part of Steve’s life long after her passing.

He is survived by his daughter, Barbara Staruk; his siblings, Susan Bowser Musgrave and William Bowser; and his step-siblings, Maurlana Reynolds and Jon Leininger. He also leaves behind many family members and friends who will remember his quiet humor, his unique personality, and the ways he showed his love through the things he did for those around him.

Steve was cremated. A celebration of his life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at LoveJoy United Presbyterian Church, 2550 Rock Hill Road, Wood River, Illinois 62095. A reception will follow the service.

Steve’s life was not defined by how loudly he spoke or how often he said he loved someone. He showed his love through his actions, through the things he fixed, the responsibilities he carried, and the people and animals he cared for. He will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him.

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