Michael Ray Bowles

Michael Ray Bowles, 63, of Vinton, passed away Tuesday, November 30, 2021. Mike was a caring and loving man, always willing to help anyone. His kindness and generosity touched everyone he knew, from a stranger in the military with transmission trouble to his soul-mate and family. His working career included five years with Southwest Construction, and 21 years with Fleet Transmissions.

He then went in to partnership with Tony Bradford and BnB Transmissions, LLC was opened. He loved his job, it was a major part of his life going on 18 years. Mike wants to be remembered as one of the best transmission guys around. Work was not his only passion. He was a man of the land, loving to work on the farm, riding his tractor and mowing hay or helping with the cows or even giving the donkey, Willie, a cracker.

One of his favorite past-times was spending the night on the farm at the cabin with his best friend, ,Steve, and Steve’s grandson, David playing dominos, or climbing up in a tree stand and killing a deer. He had a great love of riding his motorcycle. The freedom of the road and camaraderie with those that rode with him brought him much happiness. This happiness was reflected in voice and in the many pictures he took while on his rides. He lived his life to thew fullest, not letting pain or worry become the only thing in it. He will be remembered for the many kindnesses, love, and generous things he did during his lifetime. He shall be greatly missed but always in our hearts.

Memorable quotes: “I can’t afford it!” Mike “Dang you BJ!” Mike “Riding with Mike is like riding a bull while being shot out of a cannon through the eye of a hurricane.” Jerry “No matter what happened, Mikey did it!” Steve

A celebration of his life will be at 10:00 AM Saturday, December 4, 2021 at the Lotz Funeral Home Chapel in Vinton. Interment will follow in Mountain View Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Friday, December 3, 2021 from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM at the funeral home.