ROCKPORT — Michael Dennis Bowers passed away peacefully at his home in Rockport on May 20, 2021 at the age of 72.

He was born in Whitinsville, Massachusetts, on October 21, 1948, the son of Eva L. Bowers.

Michael grew up in Costigan and Bradford and attended Old Town High School. Following his graduation, Michael attended the University of Maine at Orono as a Political Science major. During a summer work study
assignment at the Ira C. Darling Marine Research Center in Walpole, Maine, Mike met his future wife, Karyn. In February of 1972 they were married.

The early years of their marriage involved finishing up their degrees. Michael earned his Political Science degree and then completed a Master’s degree in Library Science. After graduating, the Bowers both obtained employment in S.A.D. 46, the Dexter school system. There Mike taught 7th grade Biology and 8th grade Physical Science.

Mike was a dedicated Celtics, Patriots and Red Sox fan. Combining his loves for sports and teaching, Mike coached girls’ softball at both the Middle and High School levels. He also coordinated the Science Fair, teaching the students to employ the scientific method in their projects. He accompanied local winners to compete at the State Science Fair held in Brewer, the Dexter Middle School benefitting from monies received from students’ winning efforts. Michael also served as President of the school teachers’ union before retiring in 2009.

Michael is survived by his wife, Karyn; son, Samuel; daughter-in-law, Joann;, grandson, Grant; and dear friends.

Michael is also survived by many extended family members, including Judith Wood of Bangor; Cheryl Beard and family of Freemont, Ohio; Paul Makela and family of Seligman, Missouri; Linda Smith and family of Dowaigiac, Michigan; Gayle Tuttle and family of Novi, Michigan; Samuel Makela and family, Michigan; Donna Pence and family all of Edwardsburg; and Keith Makela and family of Bradley.

He will be missed by many people for his roles as teacher, mentor, coach, friend, companion, husband, father and grandpa.

Visiting hours will be held Friday, June 4, 2021, from 4 to 6 p.m., at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland where a Celebration of Michael’s Life will be held immediately following at 6 p.m. All are welcome to share a memory.

Condolences to the family may be expressed at www.bchfh.com. In lieu of flowers, express a kindness to someone who loves you or to someone you love.