Matthew Allen Bowen

Matthew was born September 28, 1986, and was the oldest of five. His brother Mitch joined us shortly thereafter and they were as close as twins. To mix things up, we added his sister Morgan to the group, and she has since been know as the "family glue." And because three children just weren't enough of a challenge, Zach came next and was an instant favorite and then lost that position when the baby sister Lexie came along.

As you could imagine, our household could be crazy at times, and soon first names were replaced with numbers. Matthew being number 1 (and not always in a good way). As we navigated life, such as any family, there were ups and downs, but at the end of the day they had each other's backs and could always count on one another.

After surviving siblinghood, Matthew began his search for his ideal Life Trade. Starting with General Construction and Truck Driving he quickly eliminated what he didn't want to do. After a few more detours, Number 2 introduced him to the Electrical Trade. And while we will never know if the intention was to teach Matthew to be an Electrician or simply to provide entertainment, the Trade choice stuck and with the support and encouragement of both his Brother and Grandfather he finally found his path.

Concurrent with searching for the perfect Trade, Matthew also started a family and was the proud father of four beautiful children, each one as unique as him. As I look at each of them today, I recognize pieces of him that will continue to live and grow.

Kyler's natural ability to learn and adapt, Kason who will always bring a smile and a tall tale, Hayden who will never back down from a challenge and finally his sweet baby girl without a shy bone in her body will become your best friend in 30 seconds. In sharing these small details of his children, I am also describing my son.

Memorial service is 2:00 pm Thursday, February 22, 2024 at the First Baptist Church in Mulvane, Kansas.

We love you Matthew, you will forever hold a special place in our hearts.

Love Mom