Melvin Elmer Bowman, 86, of Firth, NE, passed away October 12, 2026. He was born January 30, 1940 at the family home near Firth, NE during a blizzard. A bulldozer had to drive the doctor to the home for Melvin’s arrival.
Melvin was a lifelong member of St. John’s Lutheran Church.
Melvin graduated from Cortland High School in 1958. On June 10, 1961, Melvin married Cheryl Keel. They were blessed with four sons, Todd, Toby, Buff and Zac.
Melvin worked as a farmer and trucker until 1969, and he then began employment at Nebraska Public Power Sheldon Station until 1999. From 2004 to 2024, Melvin drove speed shuttle for Pioneer.
Melvin enjoyed collecting and restoring John Deere tractors and memorabilia, restoring classic cars and attending car shows. He enjoyed spending time with his family and telling stories about his life experiences. He also enjoyed playing card with friends in Cortland.
He is survived by his wife, Cheryl; sons, Todd (Crystal), Toby (Kari) and Zac (Jessica); grandchildren, Amber and Curtis Aden, Britta and Dustin Robinson, Levi and Heidi Bowman, Elizabeth and Michael Tinsley, Christopher Anderson, Kylie and Dylan Worrell, Kyle Hernandez, Kayla Hernandez, Lillie and Carson Helms, Chloe Bowman and Max Bowman; great grandchildren, Karter, Brooklynn, Cameron, Cole, Bryson, Hattie and Sadie.
Preceded in death by his son, Buff, parents, Leon and Eunice Bowman, brothers, Sonny Bowman and Terry Bowman.
Funeral Service will be held 1:00 pm Saturday, October 17, 2026 at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 250 W. 1st Street, Cortland, NE.
Burial to follow at St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery, 7139 E. Apple Road, Firth, NE.
Memorials to the family for future designation