Introducing Pat Bowers SHL

Introducing Pat Bowers

Meet Pat Bowers SHL Delegate Tom Eyssell interviewed Pat Bowers, delegation First Vice-President of the Missouri Silvered Haired Legislature and House Speaker Pro-Tem.

How long have you been a member of the Silver-Haired Legislature? 10 years

What caused you to join the Silver-Haired Legislature? I have always been interested in senior issues and discovered the Silver-Haired Legislature through an article in the St. Louis American. I came to a meeting and was initially voted in as an alternate. 

How long have you lived in Franklin County? 11 yr

Tell us a bit about your background – what did you do before retiring, what interests do you have these days (apart from senior advocacy)? Much of my career was in contracts and procurement. I bought everything from computers to planes to trains. I retired from the Defense Contract Management Agency and also served in the U.S. Navy Reserves for twenty years. I am an avid reader and enjoy travel and spending time with my grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Another organization I am active with is Neighbors United Undoing Racism. We are active in Franklin County programs such as Stories Matter and Vacation Culture School. The Stories Matter program places books featuring Black and brown children in the county libraries and the Vacation Culture School focuses on educating people about different cultures and ethnic groups. I also chair the Martin Luther King celebration each year in Franklin County. And, I am a new notary!

What do you think are the biggest issues facing seniors today? I think the biggest issues facing seniors today are: The ability to stay in their homes, Lack of access to transportation, and Voting access and education.

What would you like to say to someone interested in joining the SHL? I would say “Do it!” I enjoy the camaraderie, and the knowledge I have gained about senior issues and the political process has been invaluable.