Tributes have been paid following the death of a former mayor of Marlow and a well‑known figure in the town’s civic and business life.
Michael Bowater passed away peacefully on Friday, May 8, at Cliveden Manor Nursing Home.
He was a passionate advocate for the town and remained closely connected to the town for many years.
He served as Town Mayor of Marlow from 1989 to 1990, earning a reputation for his forthright approach and his commitment to open debate on local issues.
Never one to shy away from controversy, he was known for holding strong views on matters affecting the town and was unafraid to challenge others, always tempered with a sharp sense of humour.
Alongside his civic role, Mr Bowater was deeply involved in Marlow’s business community.
He was President of the Marlow Chamber of Trade and Commerce between 1993 and 1996 and was later made a lifetime honorary member in recognition of his service.
In his later years, he continued to attend chamber annual general meetings, often accompanied by close friend and fellow honorary member Lance Slater, with whom he formed a familiar and formidable presence.
Mr Slater passed away in January 2023.
Following his death, Marlow’s Chamber of Commerce said: “They [Lance and Michael] made a formidable team.
“Michael had strong views on many matters relating to the town and was not afraid to challenge others although he kept his sense of humour.
“He was also a mine of information of everything that had taken place in Marlow.
“If you needed to know anything about past times you went to Michael.
“He had a good and interesting life but will now be at rest with his beloved wife Joan.”
