Danny William Bowlin, age 78, passed away on January 17, 2024, in Memphis, TN. He was born on March 20, 1945, in Memphis, TN, to Mary Christine Miller Bowlin and Samuel Wayne Bowlin.
Danny will be fondly remembered as an aviator, historian, and journalist. His aviation career began in 1968 when he entered Air Force Pilot training in class 68H. Serving in the US Air Force and Tennessee Air National Guard, Danny flew cargo missions in support of the Vietnam War, earning the Vietnam Service Medal. Later, he embarked on a successful airline career, starting with Southern Airways in 1969 and retiring as a Boeing 747 Captain from Northwest Airlines after more than 30 years of dedicated service.
Aviation was not only Danny's vocation but also his passion. He had the privilege of flying the Boeing B17, World War II Bomber, known as the "Aluminum Overcast," on a nationwide tour. This experience allowed him to pay tribute to the brave men and women who served during World War II. Danny's interest in history and journalism intertwined with his time flying the B17, as he listened to veterans' stories, studied their experiences, and wrote articles to preserve their remarkable narratives. He took great pride in moderating "Warbirds in Review" programs presented in Oshkosh, WI, which were recorded as a lasting tribute to veterans and those who restore historically significant aircraft.
In his later years, Danny cherished staying connected with his many friends and sharing his love of music with his Memphis friends.
Danny is survived by his son, Jeffrey Bowlin; nephew, Bret Bowlin and wife, Cindy Bowlin; niece, Toni Bowlin Mason; sister-in-law, Connie Jones Bowlin; two great nephews,and one great niece. He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Ed Miller Bowlin.
No services are planned at this time. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Danny's memory to the Wounded Warrior Project at https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/ .
The funeral arrangements are being handled by Tennessee Cremations, Inc., located at 2768 Summer Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee 38122-3722.
Danny Bowlin will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. May his memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to us all.
Danny William Bowlin
March 20, 1945 - January 17, 2024
Obituary
Dedicated to Friends, Past and Present