'My first example of a public servant' | Mayor Bowser announces passing of father, Joe Bowser, at 88

WASHINGTON — D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser announced Saturday the passing of her father, Joseph L. Bowser, at the age of 88.

Bowser was born and raised in D.C., where he attended  St. Augustine’s Catholic Scholl and Armstrong High School before studying at Federal City College, which was later combined into what is now the University of the District of Columbia. According to a D.C. Council resolution honoring him in 2020, he went on to work for the District of Columbia Public Schools in the buildings and grounds division and was later elected among one of the first cohorts of Advisory Neighborhood Commissions. Bowser served as an ANC for 22 years, as well as president of the North Michigan Park Civic Association.

Bowser married his wife Joan Daivs in 1950. The couple went on to have five children: Mercia, Martin, Marvin, Mark and Muriel, which they raised in their North Michigan Park neighborhood.

Bowser was preceded in death by his daughter, Mercia Bowser, who died in February 2021 from complications of the novel coronavirus.  

On Saturday, Mayor Bowser described her father in a statement as her mentor and role model:

“For 52 years, my dad has been at my side — guiding me, cheering for me, loving me. He was the first person to take me to a community meeting. The first person to teach me that if something needs to be fixed, then step up and fix it — and finish any job you start. My first example of a public servant. The first person - along with my mom - to show me unconditional love.

“Joe Bowser was tough, he was bold, and he was uncompromising when it came to doing what’s right. And I wouldn’t be where I am today without him. Simply put, he was the best father and mentor a daughter could ask for. He held the Bible for me as I was sworn into office; and I had the honor of delivering the oath as he was sworn in as an officer of the North Michigan Park Civic Association. That was what it meant to walk in Joe Bowser’s footsteps — always knowing he was there, always pushing me to keep up.

“God blessed me and Miranda with you, Dad. I’m heartbroken. I know that you will continue to guide me, and I will work every day to make you and mom proud. There will never be another Joe Bowser, you will be missed.”

Service information was not immediately available.