Former USF Athletics director Dick Bowers dies

TAMPA -- Richard "Dick" Bowers, former University of South Florida athletics director, died suddenly Thursday at age 77.

Bowers oversaw USF's fledgling sports program through its early years, joining the physical education staff in 1963 and becoming athletics director from 1966 until 1983, when he became director of development for the university's College of Business Administration.

His contributions included spearheading the development of the school's baseball field, golf course and the SunDome. Former USF President Betty Castor said Bowers, who played basketball at the University of Tennessee in the 1950s, was responsible for bringing basketball to USF.

After retiring in 2003, Bowers went on to work for the Museum of Science and Industry in Tampa. He served since 1981 in a leadership role for the Gold Shield Foundation, which raises money for families of police officers and firefighters injured or killed on the job.

But those who knew him well said Bowers was best known for his easygoing manner, friendly demeanor and unforgettable smile.

"He had a twinkle," said Castor. "You really felt that when you were talking to him that he was totally interested in you."

Bowers is survived by Madge, his wife of 48 years, son Rick, daughter Delisa and two grandchildren.

Madge Bowers said she believes her husband suffered an aneurysm.

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Rebecca Catalanello, Times staff writer