Christopher Franklin Bowman passed away peacefully in his home after a courageous battle with prostate cancer and congestive heart failure on November 11, 2023. Chris was the second child born on December 25, 1954, to the late Reilly Ellsworth and Shirley Huff Bowman of Hampton, VA. Chris leaves to cherish many memories his loving and devoted wife of 23 years (together 32 years), Cindy Fronkier Bowman, his two sons, Bryce Bowman (Lindsay) of Hollidaysburg, PA, and Zachary Bowman of Harrisburg, NC; his step-daughters, Sarah Whisnant of Wilmington, NC, and Stephanie Whisnant of Lander, WY; his brother, Butch Bowman (Debbie) of Newport News, VA; his sister, Rebecca Bowman Allen, of Reidsville, NC; and goddaughter Sherry Fronkier, of Ruther Glen, VA.

Chris loved and adored his six grandchildren: Eleanor and Ashby Bowman of Hollidaysburg, PA; Emma Bogan of Wilmington, NC; and Audreyana, Maren, and Ruby Brave-Heart of Lander, WY.

Chris graduated from Bethel High School in Hampton, VA, in 1973. After his high school years he graduated from the police academy and served as a Sheriff’s Deputy in James City County, VA. He later worked for Tri-City Beverage company as an account manager. He and Cindy later owned and operated the American Indian Company located in City Market in Raleigh, NC, until they both began their work as artists in American Indian and Native American art and artifacts. Chris was a member for twenty-three years of the prestigious and recognized Village of Yesteryear with the North Carolina State Fair. He and Cindy demonstrated and educated the public about their art, artifacts, and the historical significance of their work. They both participated as vendors at many powwows, festivals, and fairs.

Chris enjoyed history, music, cooking, fine cuisine, fine wine, travel, and his work as an artist in the Native American genre. His Native American style wooden flutes and artifacts were collected by so many and touched so many lives. He was always excited and eager to share any information or knowledge in regard to his art. His intelligence, wit, and creativity were traits that were loved and treasured by those that knew him.

Chris chose to be cremated and his remains will be scattered in various places that were dear to him. A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held on June 8, 2024 from 2:00-5:00 p.m. at Renaissance Funeral Home.