James Milton Bower

James Milton Bower, 81, passed away on Monday, August 24, 2015 after a brief illness. He was born on March 29, 1934 in Buffalo, NY to Milton and Ester (Geuder) Bower. James grew up in Buffalo, N.Y. where he graduated from Bennett High School in 1952. Soon thereafter at age 20, James enlisted in the U.S. Navy and began a professional career that lasted until his retirement from the Navy in August of 1984, a span of 30 years. While on active duty James received a number of awards for his service including recognition for his duty during the Vietnam War. James met and married the love of his life, Blanche DeMour on September 5th, 1972. Their love affair lasted until her death in 1993. Although James did not have children of his own, he adored, laughed and loved with his adopted family he found through his union with Blanche. James never forgot a birthday, a wedding date or another significant event in the lives of his family. He created and maintained the family calendar that noted every significant event throughout the year and it is the reason no male member of the family ever forgot a birthday or anniversary. James gave generously to his family with his time, his love and his wisdom. James is survived by his stepdaughter, Patricia and son-in-law, Cmdr. Arthur Cisson, his granddaughters, Cheryl (Charles) Freeland, Susan (Donald) Bobbitt, Katie (Andrew) Rea and Pamela (Dean) Hohnerlein, and his grandsons, Scott and John Cisson; In addition, he is survived by 14 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. James life can be summed up in six words: ‘he gave more than he received'. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends. Graveside services will be 11 a.m. Saturday, August 29, 2015 at Fairview Memorial Gardens Cemetery with military honors and Reverend Jim Huffman officiating. Entombment will follow in Fairview Memorial Gardens Cemetery under the direction of Beard's Chapel. There is no scheduled visitation. Condolences at www.beardsfuneralchapel.com.