Gerald "Jerry" Bowles

Gerald "Jerry" Bowles, 86, of Langdon, ND, passed away January 23, 2025, at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks, ND. 

Jerry was born on March 11, 1938, in Langdon, ND, to Walter and Ada (Magnus) Bowles. Jerry's childhood in rural North Dakota was an ingrained part of his life. He attended Hay Township School, a one-room schoolhouse that was the center of many stories. During those years, Jerry formed lasting friendships with his siblings and other children from the large farm families in the area. He often reminisced about the carefree days spent playing with his fellow farm kids, creating adventures. In 1956, Jerry graduated from Langdon High School and continued his education at NDSU in Fargo. After college, he returned to Langdon to take up farming on the family land, joined by his close friend, Bill Ramage. On December 21, 1985, Jerry married the love of his life, Constance Fritz, in Louisville, Texas, and they made their home in Langdon, where they raised their two children, Bear and Brittany. 

Jerry was known for his relentless work ethic and commitment to his family and friends. He took immense pride in everything he did, whether it was farming, tending to the yard, or grinding stumps alongside his son. Baseball was a lifelong passion for Jerry, starting from his school days and remaining a constant throughout his life. He was an avid New York Yankees fan. Above all, Jerry cherished time spent with his family. He delighted in being surrounded by his wife, children and grandchildren. Jerry leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and a life well-lived. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Surviving Jerry are his wife, Constance, of Langdon, ND; children: Bear (Laura) Bowles of Fargo, ND, and Brittany (Sean) Feil of Langdon, ND; grandchildren: Rhett and Blake Bowles and Paisley, Cash, Presley, and Brooks Feil; siblings: Ronald (Peggy) Bowles, Lynetta (Dennis) Karlstad, Pamela (Dave) Breyen; brother-in-law Lawrence Wild; along with many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings: James (Eunice), Richard (Sally), Muriel (Ray) Schrader, Bette (Frank) Bata, Doris (Julian) Christianson, and Susan Wild; and in-laws Pete and Dixie (Samm) Fritz.

Funeral services will be at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at United Methodist Church in Langdon, ND. Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. with a 7:00 p.m. prayer service on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at Brooks Funeral Home in Langdon.