Chris Wendell Bowen
December 12, 1961 – October 2, 2025

Chris Wendell Bowen, 63, passed away on October 2nd, 2025, at his home in St. John, Idaho, after a long and courageous battle with a rare illness.

Chris was born December 12, 1961, in Pocatello, Idaho, to Leland and Patsy Bowen. He spent his childhood between Pocatello and Tremonton, Utah, graduating from Bear River High School.

Growing up in a large family, Chris learned the value of hard work early on. He gave his very best to every job he held, from his first to his last, until illness led him to an early retirement. He truly believed in giving your best and earning your wage. He firmly believed in earning his way and doing every task with pride, a lesson he made a point to teach his children.

Chris served in both the Army National Guard and the United States Navy where he cherished his time abroad the USS Peleliu. His service enabled him to see much of the world and returned home with countless stories and souvenirs to share with his family.

On September 6th, 1987, Chris married Susan Irene Thomas in Elko, Nevada. Together, they made a home in Malad, Idaho, where they raised their loving family. After working various jobs early in their marriage, Chris found his true calling at the Oneida County Sheriff’s office.

Chris loved serving his community. He began as a dispatcher, worked his way up to deputy, and became our county’s first K9 handler with his beloved partner, Roy. The two formed a close bond and proved to be an exceptional team earning many trophies and awards at competitions, but more importantly helping countless people, changing lives, and removing drugs from the community. In his time working for the Sheriff’s office, he also served as the Chief Deputy. Chris believed in treating people with kindness, respect, and fairness. He humbly believed in doing everything possible to make a difference. He often reflected fondly on his service in law enforcement. The camaraderie, the laughter, and the lasting friendships he made along the way

In 2004 Chris took his dedication, values, and leadership to the Union Pacific Railroad, where he worked as a Yardmaster for most of his career. In an environment where people are hard to please, everyone is looking over their shoulder, and many have unrealistic expectations, Chris rose to the occasion. He was able to run the yard with razor precision, while still treating people with respect and class. For his efforts he earned the respect and friendship of many who worked alongside him.

Outside of work, Chris was happiest outdoors. He enjoyed hunting with his family, fly fishing, ice fishing, and taking Sunday drives. He also loved cooking, camping, and later in life, discovered a passion for Harley-Davidson’s. Though he’d be reluctant to admit it, he had a soft spot for farming too. Guided by his deep respect for family and service, he became increasingly involved in his father-in-law’s farm making improvements, helping it thrive, and ultimately keeping it running after his father-in-law’s passing.

Above all else, Chris loved his family and especially being a grandpa. He supported his kids and grandkids in all of their interests and even developed a deep love for Softball. Whimsically, he enjoyed singing random songs he made up on the spot to fit the moment. He was deeply devoted to his parents and siblings and was always ready to lend a helping hand. His big heart, steady strength, kind spirit, and sense of humor will be missed by all who knew him.

Chris is survived by his mother, Patsy Bowen; his loving wife, Susan Bowen; and his children, Tyrell (Clara) Bowen, Taija Bowen, and Taylor (Jorilynn Wardle) Bowen. He is also survived by his grandchildren—Liddia and Madelyn Gonzalez, Holland Bowen, Brynlee, and Kade—as well as his siblings: Janie (Mike) Ransley, Thomas (Susan) Bowen, LeAnne Bowen, GeorgeAnn Anderson (Gary), Amy (Andrew) Peedle, John (Margee) Bowen, Letty Bowen, Karla (Arland) Reynolds, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his son Trevan Lee Bowen; his father Leland Kay Bowen; brother Robert L Bowen; father and mother-in law Fern Daniels Thomas and Dale Jones Thomas; brothers-in-law Charlie Oatman and Dale LeRoy Thomas; niece Brittney Noble; and nephew Desmond Oatman

Viewings will be held at Horsley Funeral Home on October 7, 2025, from 19:00-20:00, and again on October 8, from 10:30-11:30, followed by the funeral service at 12:00 in the Malad LDS Stake Center. Cremation and Burial will take place at later dates.

As a lifelong public servant Chris touched many lives. The family invites and encourages those with fond memories of Chris to share their memories and stories through the guestbook on the Horsley Funeral Home website