October 10, 1938 - February 27, 2026
Alvin Arthur Bowman, age 87, of Minneapolis, passed away February 27, 2026.
He is survived by his loving wife, Geraldine “Gerri” Bowman; daughters, Nancy (Jim) Kruse and Stacey (Greg) Larson; granddaughters, Kayla Kruse, Rachel Larson and Amanda Larson; brother, Harold (Linda) Bowman; and many extended family members and friends.
Alvin is preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Florence Bowman.
Alvin Arthur Bowman didn’t just live through history, he studied it, photographed it, and never stopped being amazed by it. Born on October 10, 1938, in Oelwein, Iowa and raised on a farm in Arlington. Alvin often marveled at the distance he’d traveled from a childhood of “primitive” beginnings, without running water or indoor plumbing, to a life filled with world news, genealogy, and the digital age.
A 1956 graduate of Arlington High School and 1960 graduate of Wartburg College, Alvin’s journey took him from the Iowa fields to the U.S. Army in Fairbanks, Alaska, and eventually to the aisles of Powers Dry Goods. It was there that his mother-in-law played matchmaker, setting him up with Gerri. They married on August 8, 1964, beginning a 61-year partnership build on road trips, Mall of America walks, and watching planes take off at MSP. Together, they raised two daughters, Nancy and Stacey, that he fondly referred to as his “helicopter daughters” the past 4 years. He was also the proud grandfather to three granddaughters: Rachel, Amanda, and Kayla, who will forever cherish his memory.
Alvin spent 20 years with Powers Dry Goods before finding his true calling at the Minneapolis Public Library. For the next 20 years, Alvin was more than just staff; he was a friend to his coworkers and a guide to countless patrons. Al was celebrated as an “equal opportunity trainer,” patiently guiding aides, librarians, and even the occasional building engineer. If someone needed training, they were invariably sent to Al. He retired on a date as unique as he was on Leap Day, February 29, 2008, at the age of 69.
Alvin Arthur Bowman will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his profound wisdom, and the indelible mark he left on his family, colleagues, and community. His legacy of kindness, dedication, and ingenuity will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
He passed away on February 27, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of balanced perspectives, meticulously kept quotes, and a reminder to always be curious about the person sitting next to you!
Memorial Service
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
10:00 AM
Visitation 1 hour prior
House of Prayer Lutheran Church
7625 Chicago Avenue
Richfield, Minnesota 55423
We first met Al at Panera when my husband overheard him mention Oelwein, Iowa—where my husband also grew up. He immediately went over to introduce himself, and that chance connection became a lasting friendship. Our coffee group has shared many good years together, even as we’ve faced too many losses, and now dear Al.
With heartfelt sympathy for Gerri, Nancy, and Stacey as they grieve the loss of a beloved husband and father. He will be deeply missed.
I am so sorry to hear of Alvin passing.
We were friends in high school and occasionally got to catch up at school reunions.
Alvin is a sweet memory.
Sending hugs to all his family.
I worked with Al at EL. He was my second Aide III and one of the easiest people to work with. He was always calm and fair with the staff and the public. He and I both came from rural, farm backgrounds so we had that in common. It was great to see the warm, loving relationship he had with his family when Gerri and their daughters came to pick him up at the end of the workday. He was so proud of his family. I was able to keep up with his activities through his FB posts. He will be missed by everyone who knew him.