Michael Douglas Bowser
November 13, 1986 ~ September 26, 2025
Michael Douglas Bowser, lovingly known as Mike, passed away peacefully on September 26, 2025, in Jacksonville, Florida, at the age of 38, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by family and friends who loved him deeply.
Born on November 13, 1986, in San Diego, California, Mike was the beloved son of Joel and Leslie Bowser. As part of a military family, he spent his childhood in several places across the country - including Wisconsin, Virginia, Georgia, and eventually settled in Jacksonville, Florida, which became home.
From a young age, Mike found joy in fishing - a lifelong passion that brought him peace and connection to nature. He built a career in the culinary industry, rising to the role of Executive Sous Chef at True Food Kitchen. Known for his exceptional work ethic, Mike was more than just a dedicated chef - he was a mentor, a team player, and a source of inspiration to those he worked alongside. His passion for food was matched only by his drive to uplift others in the kitchen.
But what truly defined Mike was his heart. He had a heart of gold - generous, compassionate, and fiercely loyal. Family was at the center of everything he did. He never let a moment pass without reminding those he loved how much he cared. He often said, "Always say 'I love you' - you never know when it might be the last time." That simple truth was a reflection of how he lived his life: with love first, always.
Mike's greatest pride and deepest joy came from being a father. His children - Halley, Gabriella, Lucas, and Julian - were the light of his life and the legacy he was most proud of. He loved them with all he had, and his love will continue to live on in them.
Mike is survived by his devoted wife, Liana; his children, Halley, Gabriella, Lucas, and Julian; his siblings, Zach (Taina), Heather, Amanda, and JJ; his parents, Leslie (Joe) Bowser and Joel Bowser; and many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Mike's life, though cut far too short, was filled with meaning, laughter, and so much love. His impact will be felt for generations - in the meals shared, the lessons passed down, and the memories held close.
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I love you bro, you are gonna be missed dearly.
Mike you are missed so deeply. I miss my everyday with you. I loved caring for you when you couldn't do it. I miss everything. Non of our holidays will be the same without you. I dont know how to go on with out you here telling me everyday that you loved me. I was suppose to go before my children. But God had plans for you. Now you are dancing with the angels.
My heart goes out to you all. 💔 Words can't express all the emotions. I wasn't exactly close to everyone but you are a part of my extended family and I'm so sorry this has happened. I can only imagine what you guys are going through. I know Mike is watching you all from above, wrapping his Angel wings around you all . Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers 🙏♥️🙏 Love you all 💓
I will always hold you in my heart. I don't know how to live with out you. My heart aches. So hard to believe you are not here with us. I know I did good helping you when you could not feed yourself. I took you to doctor appointments. Your life ended to soon you had so many things in life to accomplish. I wish it all was a dream. WE WILL ALL MISS YOU MY BABY BOY.
Mike was such a great person I had most of his classes in middle school you will always be remembered never forgotten fly high baby boy 🕊️🙌
Dear Leslie, Liana and family.
My prayers and thoughts are with you all in his memory and may he rest in peace.
I didnt know him personally but we are related somewhere down the road . My heart is with the family and friends and Im here if anyone needs a shoulder to cry on ❤️hugs and prayers for the family and friends. Fly High Mike
Mike was more than a friend. He was a brother. He will be greatly missed.
A real one gone too soon. Good memories and a great person. It was always good running into you and catching up. Fly high brotha keep the lines tight. My condolences and prayers go out to your family.
I’m so sorry to hear Mike passed. I’m sending you my deepest condolences during this hard time. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Reading all of the comments shows very clearly that he touched so many people’s lives and was loved by so many.
I'm so sadden to hear this. You were the kindest giant I have ever met. I remember coming to you for help when a group of girls were trying to jump me back in school lol and you did right behind me. I always thought you were very good at drawing when we shared an art class together. You were taken too young. My heart and prayers go out to your loved ones. Rest easy Mike 💔