Philip Eugene Bower

Philip Eugene Bower of Independence, MO, returned to the loving arms of God on March 17, 2026. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Terry Bower, three sons and their wives (Greg and Rhonda, Kevin and Callie, Scott and Amy), 11 grandchildren, and 1 great grandson, as well his sister, Cheryl Daly, and his brother, Paul Bower (Susie).

Phil was born on April 5, 1949, in Kansas City, MO, the first child of Eugene and Betty Bower, who both proceeded him in death. Phil and his siblings were raised in Shawnee, KS. He was a three-sport athlete, playing football, basketball, and baseball in high school, starring at St. Joseph High School in the mid-1960s. He continued his education and athletic pursuits at Rockhurst College where he played both basketball and baseball for the Hawks.

Family was always a priority for Phil. He married Terry, his high school sweetheart, on April 11, 1970, and they quickly established a family, welcoming all three sons into the world by 1975.

After college graduation in 1971, he eventually went to work for General Motors at the Leeds plant. With General Motors, Phil’s career took him to Detroit and back to Kansas City. After leaving General Motors, Phil’s work took him to many places, including Lexington, MO; Salina, KS; Marion, WV; McAlister, OK; and Knoxville, IA.

Phil’s love for sports kept him active outside of work. He coached each of his sons in basketball and baseball and also enjoyed refereeing basketball and baseball games at various levels of the game. Golf became a love and passion for Phil that he passed on to his sons. Phil and his sons shared joy, laughter, and many other emotions on the golf course with many extended family and friends.

Phil passed on his love of sports to his children and grandchildren. Whether it was Olathe South sports, Benedictine College football, Northern Iowa baseball, Washburn baseball, or Baylor softball, they were always in the stands, cheering for their children, grandchildren, and their teams.

Phil was an incredible husband, a terrific father, and loving grandfather. He will be greatly missed by many family and friends. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Phil’s honor to St. Mark Catholic Church in Independence, MO, as they have started a capital campaign to renovate the church.

Visitation, starting at 10:00, and funeral mass, commencing at 11:00, will be held at St Mark Catholic Church on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. Immediately following mass, family and friends are invited to proceed to Resurrection Catholic Cemetery in Lenexa, KS for committal.

May Perpetual Light shine upon Phil now and forever. May he rest in the peace of Christ.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Speaks Suburban Chapel (816) 373-3600)