Richard Bowman, a pastor, died March 30 after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 65.
Rick was pastor of First Baptist Church, Tallmadge, Ohio, since 2014, where he dearly loved and cared for his congregation.
He was also a climate coach at Seiberling CLC, a kindergarten through fifth grade school in Akron, Ohio, helping students understand what is expected in a school environment. He loved the students and staff and was beloved by them as well.
Rick was also active in his community as the founder of the IBAA men’s basketball league, and he coached church softball for many years. While extremely competitive, he used these platforms to reach others for Christ.
Holding a bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Akron, Rick was also an accomplished sports writer and editor at Record Publishing Company, a newspaper chain in northeast Ohio, and the proud author of Vikings in the Playoffs: The Golden Era Under Bud Grant, 1968–1977.
More than anything, Rick had a passion for others. He was a faithful and compassionate shepherd to those in need, always lending a helping hand and giving of himself.
Rick is survived by his wife of 34 years, Stephanie; and their daughters, Katie (Brandon) Shoaff and Abby Bowman.
