BOWMAN, Captain Craig "Opie"
It is with absolute shattered hearts that we announce the untimely passing of Captain Craig "Opie" Bowman on Sunday, May 21, 2023 at the age of 47 surrounded by his loving family after a short but courageous battle with occupational cancer.
Craig leaves behind his loving soulmate and dedicated wife of 23 years Alisen (nee Corfield).
His two children Alexis and Colin were the light of his life and his love for them knows no bounds.
Born to proud parents John and Eleanor Bowman. Mourning his loss, Craig leaves behind his brother and best friend John and Carrie Bowman.
Craig will be dearly missed by his in-laws who embraced him as a son Carol and Al Damiano and Ken and Angie Corfield as well as his brother-in-law
Jamie Corfield and sister-in-law Cara Kirkham and his nephews and niece Joey Bowman, Anna Corfield, Jimi Bowman and Eli Corfield.
Craig's career began in 2002 with the Welland Fire Department Local 481. He is remembered as a Captain who conveyed a sense of comfort and confidence in the firefighters who were assigned to his crew. His unwavering courage is matched by the ferocity of his care and competence. These qualities are not only a reflection of his profession; they are the core of his character which made him born for the career he proudly pursued and succeeded in. Everyone who worked with "Opie" will be a better fire-fighter for having that privilege, in turn creating a better and safer city to live in. Tragically he succumbed to an occupational illness, a silent battle fought by many fire fighters. He made this ultimate sacrifice giving his life in the line of duty - serving his community selflessly until the very end.
Craig's passion for the fire service was only matched by his love for hockey, he shared this passion with his son coach -ing the Thorold Blackhawks. Craig was instrumental in the creation of the Welland Firefighter Hockey team.
A special thank you to Dr. Yelamanchili for giving Craig and his family the gift of more time, Craig's nurse Gary for his compassionate care, Adam Whalen and Matt Braun for their devotion of true brotherhood. Special thanks to the members of the Welland Fire Department Local 481 for their endless love and support. Also, to Hospice Niagara for their unwavering care. To Craig's mother-in-law Carol who was with Craig and his family every step of the way.
In lieu of flowers donations to Hospice Niagara or in trust for Alexis and Colin's education would be greatly appreciated by Craig's family.
Craig's family will receive visitors at PLEASANTVIEW FUNERAL HOME 2000 Merritt -ville Highway (at the corner of highway 20) on Monday, May 29, 2023 from 1 - 4 p.m. and 6 - 9 p.m. with a Firefighter Walk Through at 7 p.m. A Line of Duty Funeral will be held at The Welland Arena (501 King St., Welland) on Tuesday, May 30, 2023 at 1 p.m. An after party will be held following the Line of Duty Funeral at The Welland Arena. Anyone with Toronto Maple Leaf Apparel is asked to wear it to the after party to honor Craig's passion for the Leafs.
Please share your condolences, memories, and photos at www.pleasantviewcemetery.ca