Martin Bowen Obituary

Martin Bowen CHARLESTON - Martin Raymond Bowen, a dedicated public servant, advertising executive, and beloved father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2025, at the age of 90. Born on July 25, 1935, Martin graduated from Yale University in the Class of 1956. He remained deeply connected to his alma mater throughout his life, serving with devotion and distinction as the Yale Class of 1956 Secretary for a decade. His thoughtful correspondence and enduring spirit helped sustain the bonds of community long after graduation. Professionally, Martin rose to become Senior Vice President at McCaffrey and McCall Inc., a leading advertising firm where his intelligence, creativity, and leadership left a lasting mark on colleagues and clients alike. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Martin was a passionate advocate for civic engagement. He served four years as an elected trustee on the Scarsdale Village Board, concluding his final two-year term in 1985. In a tribute following his tenure, The Scarsdale Inquirer wrote: "Unlike the rather laconic mayor, Martin Bowen was the great communicator, a gifted speaker and writer. He combined these skills with an inexhaustible enthusiasm for service on the Village Board to establish as impressive a record as any trustee of recent years and demonstrating an excellent example of responsiveness in government." Martin brought to public life an open mind, a deep sense of responsibility, and a genuine willingness to listen to others. He led not by volume but by example - through reason, empathy, and an unwavering belief in community. He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 49 years, Johanna. Their love was a lifelong partnership, and those who knew them take comfort in the hope that they are now reunited. Martin is survived by his three sons: Christopher and his partner, Sarah, Douglas and his partner, Gerri, and David and his husband, Bennett. He also leaves behind four cherished grandchildren: Megan, Madeline, Leo, and Violet. To his family, Martin was a pillar of strength, humor, and unwavering love. His only regret was that his guests didn't stay past midnight on the night of his 90th birthday party. Martin was deeply loved and will be missed more than words can convey. A memorial will be held in celebration of his life at Saint Andrews Church in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, at 2pm ,on Monday, October 6th. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Charleston Symphony Orchestra League (https://csolinc.org) in the name of the Johanna Bowen Scholarship Fund in keeping with Martin's lifelong commitment to civic organizations.