July 1937 was full of celebration in Rifle Colorado. By the end of that month, Smokey and Helen Bowman had welcomed and named Don Clifford Bowman. Little did they know what colorful, successful, and memorable character their son would turn out to be.
To list all of his accomplishments would likely take more space than would be allowed however to name a few- Ranch Cowboy; Rodeo Clown and Bullfighter for decades; Surveyor, Heavy Equipment Operator; Leather Artist, Real Estate Broker specializing in Ranch properties, and last but not least, Author of books and articles dedicated to preserving the history of the Western life that he loved.
Don Clifford Bowman was gifted in many ways, including with a sense of humor. The stories of his practical jokes often preceded him in any social setting. Perhaps the best known is the "Tailor" joke played on unsuspecting ladies during an evening entertainment.
Don loved the animals that filled his life whether it was the famous border collie Goofy that was part of his Rodeo Clown act, Lucky the longhorn steer whom he rode in the parades and rodeo, or his beloved horse Gato, who adorned the cover of his book Horsefeathers.
His motto was "Life is to short not to have fun!" He had a lot of fun!!
Don is preceded in death by his son Michael Bowman
Don is survived by his daughter Brandi Bowman, step-sons Pat and Danny Ariaz, sister Shirley (Crystal) Crook, sister Shyla Bowman, four grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren, and brother-in-law Pete Crystal.
There will be a celebration of Don’s life on Saturday, February 19, 2022, from noon to 4 p.m. at the American Legion, 90 N. Ada Street, in Fallon, Nevada.
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