James William Bouwkamp
December 20, 1948 - November 05, 2023
James William Bouwkamp, age 74, of Cranberry Township, passed away peacefully on November 5, 2023. He was born on December 20, 1948 in Grand Rapids, Michigan to Phyllis Eugene (Hammond) Bouwkamp and Gerald Raymond Bouwkamp and married the love of his life, Mary Elizabeth Hutzler on July 16, 1977.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Mary; three siblings Mary Brink, Dr. Thomas (Kathy) Bouwkamp, and Carol (Dr. Lyle) Monger, and their beautiful children and grandchildren; four children Katherine (Sebastian) Habr, Sarah Bouwkamp, Rachel (Dr. Benjamin) Meyers, and David Bouwkamp; and five grandchildren Gavin and Axel Habr and Luna, Forest, and Opal Meyers.
Jim’s life was rich with love of family and music. He made lifelong friendships in both his undergraduate program at the University of Illinois and his masters’ program at the University of Southern California, as well as during his service in the Air Force Band. His dedication to others extended beyond his professional life at Mellon and PNC Banks to over a dozen musical and religious organizations. Jim performed with Pittsburgh Civic Orchestra for over 40 years and served on the Board as well. He played clarinet and bass clarinet with many other groups, including Butler Symphony Orchestra, East Winds Symphonic Band and Musicians Concert Band, among others. He and Mary shared a love of Renaissance music and were members of the Renaissance and Baroque Society and performers with Goode Companie. Jim also sang in the choirs of Church of the Redeemer in Squirrel Hill and Christ Episcopal Church North Hills. In addition to performing, he advocated for music and the arts both in his community and in his childrens’ schools. When he wasn’t creating and sharing music with others, Jim was volunteering as a Cub Scout leader, teaching his kids about the depths of space, and pursuing his love of sailing.
Jim will be greatly missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and all who knew him. He will be remembered on clear nights when the stars are bright.
A celebration of Jim’s life will be held on April 20, 2024 at Christ Episcopal Church North Hills in Pittsburgh, PA. The family requests that you honor Jim’s memory by giving to Christ Episcopal Church North Hills, Pittsburgh Civic Orchestra, the National Kidney Foundation, or the charity of your choice.
Professional arrangements entrusted to Devlin Funeral Home of Cranberry Township.
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