James Ilis Bowman, aged 81, of Imperial, formerly of Cuba, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home on Friday, May 1, 2026. Born on September 8, 1944, in St. Louis, Missouri, James was the son of Ilis and Mildred (Chapman) Bowman. He was lovingly raised by Victor and Elizabeth Bowman, whom he considered his parents.

James honorably served his country in the United States Army. He was united in marriage to Elizabeth “Liz” (Weeks) Bowman, who preceded him in death on November 30, 2011. Over his career, James dedicated 24 years to National Cart Company in St. Charles, where he attained the position of Plant Manager. He also lent his skills as an engineer in a Prototype Shop and with Air Systems, Inc. Among his many interests were deer hunting, fishing, and playing slot machines, with a notable knack for Scratchers. Above all, James cherished spending time with his family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Elizabeth R. “Liz” Bowman, two brothers William “Billy” and Lawrence Dale Bowman, grandson Joseph Resinger, and his beloved dog Mindy.

James leaves behind his loving daughters Michele Bowman of Imperial and Tracey Smith of Collinsville, Illinois; four grandchildren Carissa Resinger of Imperial, James Minks of Illinois, Brittany Minks of House Springs, and Dustine Bowman of Florissant; siblings Victor Carlisle Bowman of St. Charles, Ronald Lee Bowman of Hermann, Carol Sue Bowman, Larry Bowman, and Jerry Bowman all of St. Louis; as well as nine great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many dear friends who will remember him fondly.

A visitation to honor James’s life will be held on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at 1:00 p.m. at Mizell Funeral Home & Crematory with Pastor Todd Holman, officiating. Interment will follow at Meramec Hills Cemetery in Cuba.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association.

The Mizell Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to be serving the family of James I. Bowman.