John Michael Bower

John Michael Bower, aged 74, of Sparks, NV, passed away on May 10, 2026, surrounded by family and loved ones. Born on May 25, 1951, in Richmond, VA, John was the beloved child of Mary Helen Parsons and John Ray Bower of West Virginia.

A man devoted to a life of service, John served in the United States Army for over 21 years, achieving the distinguished rank of Master Sergeant. His military career took him across the globe, deploying in support of operations in Southeast Asia, South America, and the Middle East. After retiring from active duty, John continued his commitment to public service as a police officer in Washington State and later with the Criminal Investigation Division at the Sierra Army Depot in Herlong, California.

John was deeply passionate about the causes he supported. He served as the Vice President of the Nevada chapter of the International Police Association and was a member of the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Organization. He was also a member of several other organizations dedicated to charitable endeavors, including the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and the National Pathfinder Association. Beyond his service, John was an avid gun enthusiast, loved to travel, and cherished time spent with his family.

John is survived by his loving wife, Danise Edith Wilcox, his children Art (Noy) Adhahn, Soulath (Jennifer) Adhahn, JoAnne Wong, Christian Tahahn, Erin Wilcox, Andrew (Annijki) Wilcox, and Melissa (Brian) Murdock, his grandchildren Alexander, Braden, Keanu, Keahi, Malina, Praise, Selah, Dakota, Corinne, Joshua, Tyler, Cheyanne, Rhys, Bryn, and Bowyn, and his great-grandchildren Johnathan and Isaiah. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Gregory and Paul Bower, and his son-in-law, Wes Wong. 

A celebration of life service will be held on August 1st, 2026, at 2:00 pm at Rancho San Rafael Park in Reno, NV. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation or a charity of your choice in John’s memory.