Ellettsville Youth Sports Coach John Bower’s Death Marks the End of a Brave Battle with Cancer at Age 49

After nearly two years of treatment, John Bower enters hospice care and passes peacefully surrounded by loved ones.

October 28, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on October 28, 2026

John Bower, a devoted husband, father, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2026, surrounded by his family after a courageous fight against esophageal cancer. He was 49 years old.

John was diagnosed with esophageal cancer in September 2026.

Despite having no of smoking or tobacco use, his chronic acid reflux had led to Barrett’s Esophagus, which eventually developed into cancer.

John underwent chemotherapy and radiation, followed by a major surgery in February 2026 to remove the tumor.

For a brief time, doctors considered him cancer-free. However, the disease returned and spread to his bones, leading to further rounds of chemotherapy and even a hip replacement when the cancer eroded the bone.

Over the last 18 months, John faced his illness with remarkable strength and faith.

As the cancer advanced, his doctors determined he was too weak to continue treatment, and he entered hospice care.

John had recently changed careers prior to his diagnosis, and his new benefits had not yet taken effect.

This left his family without long-term disability or life insurance coverage.

He is survived by his wife, Melissa, and their four children, ages 20, 18, 15, and 13.

Friends and family set up a fundraiser to help ease the financial burden of medical bills and funeral expenses, ensuring that the Bower family can focus on one another during this difficult time.

Throughout his illness, John remained a source of love and inspiration to his family.

Melissa shared a touching moment on October 16, 2026, when nearly 200 people on their lawn to sing Christmas carols for John.

The event, filled with neighbors, friends, and community members, became an impromptu candlelight celebration of hope and love, reflecting the impact John had on those around him.

John’s brother-in-law, Scott Bower, his passing on social media, noting that John went to be with Jesus peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones.

Scott remembered John as a devoted father, husband, and friend, whose deep faith in God provided strength to his family and community.

John Bower’s life will be remembered not only for his battle against cancer but also for the love, kindness, and faith he shared with everyone around him.

Friends, neighbors, and church members continue to honor his memory and support Melissa and the children in the days ahead.

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