John R. “Jay” Bowling went to be with the Lord Friday evening, February 13, 2015 in Ohio Health MedCentral Mansfield Hospital surrounded by his family. He was 75.
He was born January 6, 1940 in Chicago to parents John R., Sr. and Maryon (Keogh) Bowling. After he was graduated from Marmion Military Acadamy in Aurora, IL, he earned his bachlor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Notre Dame. A proud alum, he was always a strong supporter of the college and especially their football team.
Jay was a true patriot. With a military career that spanned more than 25 years, he was proud to retire as a Major. A member of Army Special Forces, he was a prestigious Green Beret with the 11th and 12th units.
At Sage (a hot spot for after-work drinks in 1960’s Chicago) a beautiful young lady named Angelita Mendez caught his eye and he knew right then that she was the girl for him. The pair soon married on May 20, 1967, and together raised a son and daughter.
Jay worked as a salesman with several companies including Federal Signal Corp., Vanner Corp., and AutoCall (where he was V.P. of sales).
He was a faithful member of Resurrection Parish in Lexington as well as Knights of Columbus, Notre Dame Club of Mansfield, and the Monogram Club. In spare time Jay enjoyed watching football and reading a good book. His family and friends will miss his great sense of humor, generosity, and all-around helpfulness.
He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years Angelita Bowling of Lexington; his son Patrick Bowling of Columbus; his daughter and son-in-law Stephanie & Dr. Nicholas Franklin of Dublin; two grandchildren Grady Franklin and Wren Franklin; a sister Barbara Zepaltas; two brothers Berry Bowling and Dennis Bowling; a neice Lauren & Tom Jankovsky with their children Andrew and Jacob; and a nephew Jason Zepaltas.
His family will receive friends 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, February 17, 2015 in Snyder Funeral Home, 2553 Lexington Ave, and a vigil service will be held at 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered 11 a.m. Wednesday morning at Resurrection Parish, 2600 Lexington Ave. The Very Rev. Father Nelson Beaver will officiate and military honors at the church will be performed by American Legion Post # 535 of Bellville.
Snyder Funeral Homes is honored to serve Jay’s family and encourage you to watch his tribute video online or post a message to his family at SnyderFuneralHomes.com
