Chad Michael Bowles

United States Army Specialist Chad Michael Bowles passed away on September 4, 2023, from a service-connected heart attack.  

Bowles was born on November 6, 1976, and grew up alongside his brother, Jason. He was raised by his mother and father, both of whom later remarried, expanding the circle of family in his life.  As a child, he was known for his happy-go-lucky spirit and boundless energy. He loved riding his motorcycle and spending time with friends, forming connections easily wherever he went. Even at a young age, his strong sense of fairness stood out—he became deeply upset when he saw others being treated unfairly, a reflection of his compassionate and principled nature.  

Bowles had a natural passion for sports, especially football, track, and baseball. Whether on the field or off, he brought enthusiasm and heart to everything he did. His outgoing personality made him well-liked by all; he was funny, playful, and had a gift for making others laugh. Bowles was truly the life of the party and always surrounded by friends. He was someone who could brighten any room and make everyone feel included. His warmth, humor, and loyalty made him not just popular, but genuinely cherished by those around him. 

Deeply patriotic, Bowles had a profound love for his country. After the events of September 11, he felt a strong calling to serve and made the decision to join the Army and fight for what he believed in. At the time, he had moved to Hawaii to be near his brother, but when 9/11 occurred, he immediately returned to Texas and began the process of enlisting. In August 2007, he achieved his goal of serving his country when he was commissioned as an Army officer in support of the Global War on Terrorism.  

Although older than many of his fellow soldiers, he quickly turned that difference into a strength. He naturally stepped into a leadership role, earning the nickname “Old Man Bowles” from his fellow soldiers—a title given with respect and admiration. He took younger soldiers under his wing, especially those who were struggling, offering guidance, support, and encouragement when they needed it most. 

Bowles served with distinction as an Airborne Ranger and completed two tours in Afghanistan. Throughout his service, he earned numerous accolades for his dedication and bravery, including the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two campaign stars, the Army Commendation Medal, the Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Parachutist Badge.  One of his defining achievements was his assignment with the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, known as “The Old Guard,” based in Virginia. Serving in this prestigious unit was a testament to his exceptional discipline, character, and unwavering commitment to his country. 

After leaving the military, Bowles continued to support the nation’s defense efforts through his work with Lockheed Martin in Fort Worth, Texas. His passion for service never waned, and he remained deeply committed to contributing to the defense community beyond his time in uniform. He was more than a paratrooper and more than a coworker—he was a true friend and mentor to many. No matter the situation, Bowles always seemed to have the answer, and he treated everyone with respect. You always knew you could go to him for guidance or simply for a listening ear. He was a true leader, a steady presence, and a loyal friend.   

Bowles met his wife, Tonya, online, and they knew almost immediately that they were soulmates. Just one month later, they were married on Super Bowl Sunday, in Tonya’s brother’s living room before the game—a moment that perfectly reflected Bowles’ fun-loving and spontaneous spirit. He was charming, quick-witted, and full of laughter. What drew them most closely together was his deep love for family and his strong faith in God, which remained at the center of their life together.  

Bowles was passionate about everything he set his mind to, whether it was his Harley-Davidson motorcycles or his beloved Dallas Cowboys. One of his favorite traditions was taking their son, Liam, to a Dallas Cowboys game every year. The two of them shared a special bond, full of laughter and memories. Liam would proudly wear his CeeDee Lamb jersey, while Bowles wore his Dak Prescott jersey, and together they would joke and call each other by their football names— “CeeDee Liam” and “Dad Prescott.”  

Bowles’ and Tonya’s life together was filled with that same fun and uniqueness. They even had a football-themed wedding—Bowles wearing his Dallas Cowboys jersey and Tonya in her Pittsburgh Steelers gear. But once she was pronounced Mrs. Chad Bowles, she slipped on a Dallas Cowboys jersey and walked out of the living room a Cowboys fan, a moment that perfectly captured the love, laughter, and joy they shared. 

Bowles’ greatest legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, his family, and most importantly, his boys. He instilled in them the values of hard work, humor, and the importance of being present. Some of the most treasured memories are filled with laughter—especially listening to him and his brother quote their favorite movies, from Forrest Gump (“Sometimes, I guess there just aren’t enough rocks.”) to The Princess Bride (“Hello. My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die.”) 

Bowles had a deep and unwavering love for his family, a vibrant personality, and a way of bringing energy and laughter into any room he entered. Though he could be strong-willed at times, his loyalty to those he cared about was unmatched. He would move mountains for the people he loved without hesitation.  

His legacy shines brightest through his boys, who carry forward his compassion, his strength, and the example he set. Bowles believed in showing up for others—whether it was a phone call to a lifelong friend, checking in on someone from work, or standing up for those who needed support. Everyone who knew him understood one thing clearly: Bowles always had their back. 

Bowles had a deep love for Christ, his family, and his friends. He stood fiercely by those he loved and would defend them with everything he had. His faith guided his life, and his unwavering devotion to the people closest to him was a true reflection of his strength, character, and heart.   

Bowles’ family honors his memory each and every day through the way they live their lives and the love they continue to share. They speak his name often, tell his stories, and make sure he remains a constant part of their conversations and their hearts. They watch videos and revisit memories so that his presence is always felt in our daily lives.  

In honoring Bowles, they strive to carry forward what mattered most to him. They give back through community service, support veterans, and work to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Since losing Bowles, they’ve also found a love for traveling, bringing him with them in spirit wherever they go. Along the way, they leave behind rocks with his name on them—so that someone, somewhere, will see it, say his name out loud, and help keep his memory alive. 

United States Army Specialist Chad Michael Bowles is survived by his devoted wife, Tonya, and their beloved sons, Colton, Quentin, Liam, and Noah. 

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage on the Bowles family home through the Gold Star Family Home Program.