Donald Eugene Bow

Donald E. Bow, 88, was born March 13, 1937, in Boise, Idaho, to John and Virginia Bow. He passed away on January 25, 2026, at home surrounded by his family.

He spent his early years on the family farm in Caldwell, Idaho, and attended grade school at Marble Front. He graduated from Caldwell High School and then enrolled at the University of Idaho as an Agriculture major until his father decided he could learn that at home.

After college Don worked on the farm, then entered the construction trade until the US Army came calling. He spent two years in Ludwigsburg, Germany working in communications. As an older serviceman (25!), Don received better treatment than many of the GI’s. His supervisor was a softball buddy from Greenleaf, Idaho and the two would go off barracks frequently to enjoy authentic German food with a local German family.

Don met his first wife, Mary Ann Stattner Windholz, prior to leaving Idaho for the Army. They were married on November 30, 1962, just two days after he returned from Germany. Mary Ann brought two daughters, Diana and Mary, to the union. Gregory and Gina were born in 1964 and 1965. He worked in construction and the family lived on the Bow farm.

On February 28, 1984, Don married JoAnn Schwisow-Johnson. They owned and operated Country Floral, at their home in Nampa for 30 years, until retiring in 2014. Don and JoAnn enjoyed traveling together and had fun taking trips to Jackpot, Elko, and the mid-west to visit family.

Don’s passions were hunting, fishing, baseball and bowling. At one time he was on every men’s league offered at Caldwell Bowl. His name is still on a plaque for multiple 300 games.

Don is survived by his wife JoAnn, children Greg (Barb) Bow of Boerne, Texas, Gina (Eric) Huntsinger of Caldwell, Diana (Cody) Odle of Middleton, Mary (Steve) McDonald of Trophy Club, Texas, Mike Johnson of Weiser, Sherry Johnson of Meridian and Connie (Bruce) Freckleton of Meridian; 12 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren; and his brother Gerald (Reida) Bow of Nampa.

Don was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Melvin Allen Bow.

A reception and viewing will be held Friday, Jan. 30th, from 12 pm – 2 pm at Nampa Funeral Home. Burial will follow at 3 pm at the Lower Fairview Cemetery, Star Road and McMillan. Arrangements are under the direction of Nampa Funeral Home.