It was a landmark week for Jasper’s oldest resident.

On Aug. 18, 2009, John Bowen turned 100. After receiving an honour at the Jasper Heritage Rodeo, Bowen was thrown two birthday parties – one at his home at the Alpine Summit Senior’s Lodge and a second larger celebration at the Jasper Legion with friends and family on Aug. 22. More than a hundred people came out for the celebration, to share stories and celebrate the life of John Bowen.

Bowen was born on Aug. 18, 1909 in Kitscoty, AB. By 1924, he moved with his family to Jasper, where he spent his first winter in a tent with his family during one of the coldest winters on record. In 1927, his family built a log house where the current Avalanche Esso sits, and the following year, he got a job at McDonald and Mason’s grocery store, where he made $16 a week. As the oldest boy in the family, he took his duties seriously, helping his father deliver gas for Imperial Oil and teaching his siblings how to knit. He also drove a taxi during Jasper’s first rodeo in 1928.

 In 1941, he married Janet McDonald, and was then shipped off to the Second World War, where he worked as a mechanic. In 1944, he served in England, Italy, Belgium and Holland, earning several medals, such as the Italy Star, the France Germany Star and the Canadian Volunteer Service Medal and Clasp, which he didn’t receive until 2007.

He returned to Jasper, and lived at the house at the corner of Pine and Pyramid road, where he was a magnet for animals. The home was a refuge for flying squirrels and deer. However in 1963, his wife Janet passed away, and Bowen was left to raise his four children John, Murdock, Janet and Isabel. He re-married Reine Trout in 1973, and moved into her home on Colin Cres. The two travelled around the country in a motorhome before they moved into Pine Grove Manor. After Reine’s death, Bowen moved into Alpine Summit Senior’s Residence, where he still lives today.

Bowen was known about town for his fantastic skiing and skating abilities, and was often seen dawning the blades on Pyramid Lake. He continued both activities well into his 80s.

“The light in his eyes at one-hundred-years-old reflects the rich experiences he has had alone and with loved ones,” said Bowen’s daughter in law Helena Bowen.

On top of letters of congratulations from several local and national politicians such as Premier Ed Stelmach and Prime Minister Stephen Harper presented by MLA Robin Campbell and councillor Gloria Kongsrd. Bowen was also awarded his 50 year long service medal, in recognition of his 50 years of membership with the Jasper Legion.

Royal Canadian Legion Branch #31 president Kim Rands said he was honoured to present the award to Bowen, noting it was the first time he had the priviledge of handing out such an award.

When asked about his thoughts on turning 100, Bowen had but two words.

“I’m lucky.”