Bowerman Funeral Home

04/24/2026

Happy Arbor Day!

04/23/2026

The Missing Man or Fallen Comrade Table may be seen at specific events to honor missing, fallen, or imprisoned service members. Each component of the table is chosen with intention and purpose. While the components of the table and their meaning may vary slightly, many sources generally agree on the following:
- The tablecloth is white symbolizing the purity of motives when answering the call to duty.
- The single red rose reminds us of those who are missing or lost as well as their loved ones.
- A yellow ribbon represents continued hope for those who are missing; a red ribbon represents a country who inspired them.
- The slice of lemon on a bread plate represents the bitter fate of those who have died or those who are missing.
- A pinch of salt on the bread plate symbolizes the tears of those waiting or grieving.
- The inverted glass represents that the service member cannot partake.
- A lighted candle symbolizes either hope for their return or remembering a fallen comrade.
- The empty chair represents their absence.
Picture is used with permission from the Veteran's family.

04/22/2026

We provide the Dr. Troyer's GriefPlan Video Program for free on our website:
https://bit.ly/3OgqH2e

04/22/2026

"When we saw tiny Earth... what struck me wasn't just Earth, it was all the blackness around it. Earth was just this lifeboat hanging in the universe. Planet Earth, you are a crew." — Christina Koch (astronaut)

Image from recent Artemis 2 mission: "Earthset" - NASA

04/21/2026

Say their name.
One of the most common things we hear from grieving families is this: ‘Please don’t be afraid to say their name.’ It may bring tears — but it also brings their loved one back into the room, if only for a moment.
Their worst fear is that their loved one will be forgotten. Don't be afraid to say their name.
Image from: https://bit.ly/4sOHVFx

04/21/2026

04/16/2026

Please contact us with any questions about preplanning.