Cathedral of the Pines Inc

Last year we lost a dear friend, Jeff Bowers, following a 4-year courageous battle with stage 4 cancer. Jeff was my wife Jen's best friend Kari’s husband for 22 amazing years & an incredible father to three children, Maddie (21), Tommy (19) and Joe (16) . Jeff was passionate about life -- particularly his family, his friends, and his faith (and the Wisconsin Badgers!). His infectious laugh, sense of humor & adventurous spirit naturally drew people to him.

Our kids are the same ages so we spent treasured time together as families. We will forever remember memories made -- from Hawaii, to time at their cabin, sporting events, Minnesota visits (where he relished watching me freeze my butt off snowmobiling, drilling holes to icefish and driving across frozen lakes! But mostly, I'll miss just hanging out with such a great dude.

On June 2nd, I will be running in my first ...& last marathon to raise money to benefit Cathedral of the Pines. Cathedral of the Pines Camp is a place that is extremely special to the Bowers Family. Jeff and his kids grew up going to camp there. It is a place that brought their family much joy & peace. In honor of their father, Jeff & Kari's kids will be on staff there this summer.

Any donation will have an impact -- and will provide much needed motivation for me to FINISH and not completely embarrass myself.

Thanks in advance for your consideration to this cause.

To learn more about Jeff, please see below:

Obituary for Jeffrey Ray Bowers

Bowers, Jeff Age 53, of Edina, became our angel on July 22, 2023 after a fierce 4 year fight with stage 4 cancer. Preceded in death by his beloved father Jerry Bowers. Survived by adoring family: mother Debra Bowers; wife of 22 years Kari, children Maddie, Tommy, Joe; sister Tracey (Tom) Illies and children Hayley, Ben, Alex, Aaron; sister-in-law, Beth (Todd) Hanson and children Alex, Olivia, Abby; Kari's parents Kathleen and Scott Elfstrom. Heartbroken also include dear extended family and countless cherished friends. Jeff loved growing up in SW Minneapolis always active in sports. He treasured time at the cabin, Cathedral of the Pines camp and family skiing in Vail, Colorado. He graduated from Washburn High School and University Wisconsin Madison where he rooted genuine friendships that continued strong for life. Jeff's peeps applauded his unwavering character. He was a sports aficionado and dedicated much time to coaching & volunteering. Kids flocked to him. He was a role model. Well known for his work ethic and integrity, he was highly respected in the municipal bond industry for over 30 years. Jeff loved family. Oh how he loved his family. A loyal son. A selfless brother. Awesome FUNcle. A doting husband. THE BEST DAD. In true BOWERPOWER fashion, Jeff seized every sunrise. Every day was game day whether working or playing. For decades before diagnosis, he lived every day like his last - never wasting a moment. Orchestrator of fun, Jeff's enthusiasm was contagious. He enjoyed planning trips and activities. He was a collector of memories - not things. He taught us many lessons and had no regrets, except being called to Heaven too early. He fought hard to explore every avenue seeking answers to cancer for the sake of all still wrestling with it. Let us always remember Jeff's huge heart. His charming signature smile. His soulful blue eyes.

Services will be held on Saturday, July 29 at Mt Olivet Church in Minneapolis. In honor of Jeff's bright light, feel free to wear color - extra points for Badger red! Private interment at Lakewood cemetery. Jeff preferred donations be made to Cathedral of the Pines Camp.