John Elvin “Rusty” Bowser passed away on Friday, September 18, 2026 in Seguin, TX. Born on November 4, 1959, in Noblesville, Indiana to John and Nina, he spent most of his life in Texas and was a longtime resident of Seguin. Upon seeing his full head of bright red hair at birth, his paternal grandfather dubbed him “Rusty.” Despite his parents' wishes, the nickname stuck.

Rusty displayed his compassionate nature early in life. At seven years old, he brought home an infant squirrel whose mom had been hit by a car. Rusty and his mother took care of the tiny squirrel until it could be released outdoors. “Skippy”, the squirrel, resided in their backyard for years, taking food out of the family's hands, eating on their shoulders, and proudly showing off her own babies. Skippy is just one of many testaments to Rusty’s kind heart for others, and its lasting effects.

At sixteen years old, Rusty attended a Baptist youth camp in Harlingen, Texas. At camp, Rusty requested and received the gift of the Holy Spirit. Although his relationship with the Lord had its ups and downs, his faith never wavered.

In 2013, Rusty married his best friend, Linda Bowser, in Seguin, TX. Linda was the joy of his life. She passed in 2021, leaving behind a beautiful legacy of unconditional love and rich companionship in the lives of those who knew her.

Rusty had a fun-loving spirit and a way of bringing laughter and light into the lives of those around him. He loved the outdoors and especially being on the water. Some of his happiest moments could be found fishing from a boat or spending time at the beach. He also loved a good project, always getting his hands into something new. He had a curious spirit and rarely stayed still for long before finding his next project or adventure. He also had a genuine appreciation for food and was an exceptionally good chef. He enjoyed creating a good meal and, like so many of the things he loved, sharing it with the people around him.

Rusty is survived by his father, John David Bowser; his sisters, Jewell Ann Borjes, née Bowser, and Joyce Lynn Hallaway, née Bowser; his nephews, James Ray Borjes (wife Shannon), Christopher Robert Borjes, Michael Spencer Hallaway (wife Lindsay), “favorite niece” Rosie Lewis, née Hallaway (husband Stan); and his great-nephew, Daniel Owen Hallaway.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Linda Marie Bowser, his mother, Nina Grantham, and his brother-in-law, Robert Borjes.

Rusty was a genuinely good soul and will be truly missed by family and friends. His place in their lives cannot be replaced, but the cherished memories he gave them will remain.

A private, intimate service will be held with family to celebrate Rusty’s life.