Ernest “Big Bama” Bowenkamp

Ernest “Big Bama” Bowenkamp, 79, passed away Thursday, December 6, 2012 at Iowa Methodist Medical Center.

Ernest was born October 6, 1933 in Elmo, Missouri to Ernest and Frances Bowenkamp and graduated from the University of Missouri.  He was working for LOOK Magazine when he met and married Lorrie Virnig.  Ernest retired from CDS in the 90’s.  He was a true “people person” and enjoyed working in his yard.  Ernest was a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church.  

Ernest is survived by his daughter, Laura (Matt) Kelly; grandchildren, Walker, Cyote and Cassidy; sister, Anita Vogel; sisters-in-law, Jan Auer and Angie Stelter; and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Lorrie Bowenkamp.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Sunday, December 9, 2012 at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon St.  Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Anthony’s Altar & Rosary Society or Bishop Drumm.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.