Memorial Golf Camp To Honor Late Ulysses Resident Mike Bowden

Edith Bowden is partnering with the Grant County Recreation Department to offer a youth memorial golf camp in honor of her late husband, Mike Bowden, who passed away in 2024 after battling stomach cancer.

Before coming to Ulysses, Mike had relocated from Borger and went on to serve the community for several years as a grocery store manager. Though the Bowdens arrived in Ulysses in 2015, Edith said the town quickly became home due to the kindness and support they received from the community.

Following Mike’s passing, Edith participated in a GriefShare group, where the concept of finding a way to honor a loved one resonated deeply with her. As she reflected on meaningful ways to remember her husband, she kept returning to one of Mike’s greatest passions — the game of golf.

Golf was a lifelong sport for Mike, and one he loved sharing with others. He made it a point to teach their daughters the game and frequently donated golf clubs to help others get started. That passion inspired the creation of the Mike Bowden Memorial Golf Camp.

Edith reached out to Grant County Recreation Department, where she received strong support from Kristy Anderson and Edeka Hauser to help bring the idea to life. Additional assistance has come from members of the Men’s Golf Association, who have expressed interest in volunteering for the camp.

The camp is planned for the first full week of June and will be open to boys and girls ages 9 to 12. Edith expects an initial participation of around 25 youth for the first year, with the potential to expand to two camps if interest grows. Several sets of golf clubs will be donated for campers to use, helping remove barriers for those new to the sport.

The cost for the camp will be $35, which includes a camp shirt. For families unable to cover the fee, scholarships are being arranged to ensure no child is turned away. In addition, an account has been established at Grant County Bank under the name Mike Bowden Memorial Golf Camp Fund for those who wish to contribute financially or donate supplies.

Families interested in signing up a child for the camp are encouraged to contact the Grant County Recreation Department for more information.

Through the memorial camp, Edith hopes to honor Mike’s legacy by sharing the game he loved — and by giving local youth the opportunity to learn a sport that teaches patience, integrity, and lifelong enjoyment.