Paul H. Bowker, 76, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family, whom he treasured so deeply.
Born on December 10, 1949, in Woodbury, New Jersey, Paul spent his life in Lower Township, New Jersey, where he built a lifetime of memories with his family, friends, and community.
Paul lived a life defined by dedication to his family, his faith, his work, and his community.
Paul was married to the love of his life, Linda S. Bowker (March 14, 1951 – March 14, 2023), for just shy of 50 wonderful years. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and countless memories. Their devotion to one another was an example to everyone who knew them.
Paul is survived by his loving children: Helen Gresham (Ahmad Gresham), Emily Hansen (Michael Pihs), John Hansen, and Peter Bowker (Brynn Bowker). His greatest joy came from being a grandfather to his "dearest loves": Callie, Amelia, and Jacob Gresham (September 28, 2015 – October 6, 2015); Miles and Riley Hansen; and Everett Bowker. His grandchildren brought endless happiness to his life, and he cherished every moment spent with them.
Paul spent 39 years as an IBEW union lineman with Verizon, where he was known for his strong work ethic, unwavering commitment, and the friendships he built along the way.
A man with a true servant's heart, Paul dedicated many years to Scout leadership, guiding and supporting multiple troops. He believed in teaching, encouraging, and helping others grow - lessons that will continue through the many lives he impacted.
Paul was also a devoted member of Holy Spirit Lutheran Church. His church congregation held a very special place in his heart, and he considered them his second family. The friendships, fellowship, and faith he found there were among his greatest blessings.
When Paul wasn't caring for his family or helping someone in the community, he could often be found enjoying the outdoors. He loved camping, hiking, fishing, and appreciating the simple moments life had to offer.
Paul will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, humor, and willingness to help anyone in need. He leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and the reminder that the greatest gifts we give are the time and care we share with others.
And finally, in true Paul fashion, in his honor, please check out Kiplinger Personal Finance. If you know, you know.
A Celebration of Life honoring Paul will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at 11:00AM at Holy Spirit Lutheran Church, 1220 Bayshore Rd., Villas, NJ 08251. In celebration of Paul's life and the joy he brought to those around him, the family kindly asks attendees to honor him by wearing green.
VICAR APPOINTMENT ON MARCH 19TH, 2023
A Memorandum of Understanding
On the Matter of Pastoral Appointment
In Theological Education for Emerging Ministries (TEEM) Candidacy
TO: Congregation Council, Holy Spirit Lutheran Church, Villas
FROM: The Rev. Tracie L. Bartholomew, Bishop, New Jersey Synod
Dear Brother and Sisters in Christ,
This memorandum is in support of your discussions with Vincent Piekarski as pastor of Holy Spirit, Villas. Because this is not the usual pattern for completing the educational and candidacy requirements for ordination, it is my hope that this memorandum will both provide guidelines and engage in conversation with those who are invested in this process.
I would say at the outset that because Vincent is an outstanding candidate for the Ministry of Word and Sacrament, we will all want to do whatever is necessary to assure that his placement serves the mission of the church in the best possible fashion.
The following notes reflect my own understanding of this matter:
(1) The appointment for Vincent will begin on April 1, 2023. At this time, Vincent will
assume all responsibilities of a regularly called pastor, including presiding at the
Sacrament of Holy Communion and Baptism at Holy Spirit, Villas.
(2) A pastoral appointment in the TEEM process is an option for completing
seminary educational requirements and the steps of the candidacy process.
Upon completion of the candidacy process and seminary education, the
candidate may receive and accept a call to ordained ministry from the
congregation where the appointment is being served.
(3) This appointment is jointly supervised by the Office of the Bishop and the TEEM
pastor’s seminary. A mentoring relationship with a local pastor is required for the
length of this appointment.
(4) The synod of candidacy origin will be responsible for the approval process.
(5) Upon approval for ordination, the congregation would be expected to extend a
call to the pastoral appointee.
(6) Compensation for the TEEM pastor will be according to the guidelines of the New
Jersey Synod. All normal forms of compensation should be in place for the term
of the appointment, including stipulation that base salary and housing shall be in
accord with synod guidelines for first call at time of ordination.
(7) The ELCA Portico benefit plan for lay persons in full-time church service should
be used for the pastoral appointee up to the time of ordination, whereupon the
benefit package is to be converted to the plan for ELCA clergy.
(8) A decision for Pastoral Appointment is made with the agreement of a synod and its
candidacy committee, and the ELCA, normally represented by the regional staff person
of each in consultation with the seminary and its Director for Contextual Education.
(9) Pastoral Appointment in a TEEM Candidacy is an option that is to serve the mission of
the Church in a particular and vital way and is not to be viewed or used as a means to
circumvent the normal candidacy process and/or first call placement process.
In the specific case of Vincent, the New Jersey Synod remains responsible for the candidacy and approval process,
and has agreed to this proposal for Appointment at Holy Spirit, Villas.
Continued blessings to both Holy Spirit and Vincent Piekarski as you embark on this journey of mutual ministry.
As partners in ministry, we walk with you and rejoice in this new relationship.