Donny Bowes, Jr. grew up in Quincy and returned to his roots to raise his family in the place that he called home.  Throughout his life, his career choices included many positions in public service, each role highlighting his knack for engaging people of all ages.  No matter the task, he always wanted people to be cared for and, above all else, filled with joy.

When his children were young, Donny spent countless hours as a volunteer coach for Quincy Youth Baseball.  He brought vibrance to the field and created excitement for the youth he coached.  Donny went out of his way to ensure he spent extra time with the kids he noticed were struggling with skills or self-esteem. It wasn't about winning championships, but instead making sure that the kids were having fun and enjoying the game.  When his team lost a game, gathering the kids up and going for ice cream was more important to Donny than rehashing the plays.  Donny’s players, now in their late 20’s, still refer to him as “Coach.”

Donny spent many years at Fenway Park working security at Gate A.  Working with the Red Sox was a dream job.  He always tried to do a little extra something for young kids visiting the park, whether it was a little token gift or giving them a program to make the day memorable.  Fenway was a happier place with Donny there.  Countless children entered the field to watch batting practice because Donny was always willing to “make a call.”   Helping others was never a big deal for Donny; it always meant so much to whoever he did it for.

Donny’s compassion extended beyond the sports arenas and courts.  He spent many Christmas seasons visiting family and friends' houses and playing Santa.   No visit was too quick or too long for him.   He loved the season and what it brought to so many people.  Donny recently started volunteering with the Quincy Fire Department to make special Santa visits.  He showed up in a fire truck at the homes of firefighters with young children, where he would pass out gifts, pose for pictures, and talk with the children. The most gratifying part of those nights was visiting the young kids who had lost their dads.  He always spent extra time with them, as his heart was sorrowful for those kids and their profound loss.  Donny knew that his boisterous and jolly portrayal of Santa would put a smile on their faces for a while and that Santa could help ease the pain momentarily.

His whole life was filled with the intent to make sure people laughed, had a good time, and knew they were loved.  He was outgoing and a friend to anyone he met.  A tragic pedestrian accident took Donny too soon from this world.  Donny will be greatly missed, and our community is a better place because Donny Bowes, Jr. called Quincy home.