William “Bill” Bowker, 77, passed away on Friday, January 16, 2026.
Born on March 16, 1948, he was the son of the late Raymond and Violet (Lauze) Bowker. Graduated 1966 from Hopkinton Jr/Sr High School and 1971 East Coast Aero Tech Bedford, MA.
Bill was a proud veteran who served his country with honor in the United States Air Force for over 23 years. Achieving the distinguished rank of Chief Master Sergeant, he dedicated his career to the nation, including tours of duty in the Vietnam War, Gulf War and Operation Desert Shield/ Storm. Bill also served for the 439th Tactical Airlift Wing as an Aircraft Maintenance Manager servicing C123, C130 and C5A aircraft. He was a proud member of the Westover Air Force Base Chief’s Council.
He was the beloved husband of Grace (Boelsen) Bowker, and the devoted father of Mark Bowker and his wife Patrizia of Bowdoinham, ME, and Karen Rocco and her husband Chris of Franklin, MA.
Bill appreciated life’s simple pleasures and exemplified the things that matter most in life. He was happiest when he was out on the lake fishing, spending time with his friends and family, or enjoying a well-deserved nap in his favorite chair. His four cherished grandchildren: Cody Bowker, Jesse Bowker, Tyler Rocco, and Nicholas Rocco, were the light of his life.
He also leaves behind his brother, Peter Bowker and his wife Cheri of Hopkinton; and his sister, Marie Mouradian and her husband Steve of Holden; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend visiting hours on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm at Callanan Cronin Funeral Home, located at 34 Church St. Hopkinton, MA. A funeral Mass will be held Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at 10:00 am, St. John the Evangelist Parish, 20 Church St. in Hopkinton, MA. Burial with military honors will be held at Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne, MA immediately following the funeral.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Disabled American Veterans, 1-(855)-619-HERO (4376).
