Bowman, Charles – ‘Chuck’

WXYZ: TV engineering, ENG videographer, TV news editing.

Died: August 1, 2026

Obituary

Charles Step Funeral Home

With deep sadness, the family of Charles Walter Bowman, 84, of Westland, MI, share that he passed away on August 1, 2026.

Charles, who was often known as “Charlie” or “Chuck”, was born in Detroit, MI to Gertrude Anna (Hughes) and Harry Leroy Bowman on October 12, 1941. Charlie joined the U.S Army soon after graduating from Redford High School and served honorably in the Military Police Corps at the rank of Private First Class and was a Second Class Light Machine Gunner.

Professionally, Charlie worked in Metro-Detroit as a highly acclaimed photographer, videographer and film editor. He worked at Channel 4, The Detroit News and in 1970 he found his professional home with Channel 7, employed there for 36 years. During his early years at Channel 7, Charlie helped lead a Boy Scout Explorers group sponsored by the station. Also while working at Channel 7, Charlie joined the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and became a Union Steward, assisting fellow employees and helping negotiate Union contracts. Charlie was recognized for his contributions to Detroit news media through various awards, notably an Emmy awarded by the National Academy of Arts and Sciences in 1982 for his coverage on the Buhl Building fire.

Charlie found many years of happy pursuits in the town of Milford, MI. He loved being a member of Milford United Methodist Church, participating in the church choir, Men’s Club and serving on the Board of Trustees. Charlie also joined the Ernest F. Oldenberg Post 216 of the American Legion. He found great fulfillment volunteering with the American Legion Honor Guard and personally helping fellow veterans access earned benefits.

Charlie is survived by his daughters Debbi Barnett (Phil) and Juliette Yanalunas (Justin); grandchildren Samuel (Elisa) Barnett and Aurora Yanalunas, brother Gordon Bowman (Paula) and many beloved nephews and nieces. Charlie is preceded in death by his parents; sister Mary Jane Bowman (survived by Rev. Ron Bowman); brothers Harry Bowman (Lois), George Bowman (survived by Billie Jean), Milford Bowman (survived by Nina Amolsch).

Charlie was a genuine “people person” and loved to make family, friends and acquaintances laugh. He easily related to others and made them feel appreciated. Charlie was an enthusiastic father who was always proud to share about his daughters accomplishments. Charlie will be remembered for having the biggest laugh, the best bear hug and still cracking jokes into his final days.

1988 Archive Photo

Chuck Bowman – Photo from Terry Pochert’s Retirement Album

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