Ilion Christopher (Chris) Bowers, 38, passed away Sunday, March 19, 2017, at his home. Chris was born in Ilion on May 5, 1978, the son of Terence and Carolyn Miller Bowers and was a graduate of Ilion High School. Chris is survived by his son Azure, with whom he adored and shared a special bond and, his mother and step-father Carolyn and Paul Stone, all of Ilion, two brothers, Terence of Oneida and Kirk of Ilion; his step-brother Nathaniel Stone of Ilion and two step-sisters Janelle Zink of W. Winfield and her companion, Ryan Frank, and Danielle Morczek and her husband, Roger, of Mohawk; his maternal grandparents Chris and Sue Miller, of Utica and Patricia Church, Frankfort; his paternal grandparents Terry Bowers of Colorado and Eleanor Kutulas of Colorado. Chris is also survived by his aunts and uncles Mark Miller, Mike and Lynne Miller, Melinda Crane, Molly and Ron Reile, Michael Bowers, Sheila and Chris Castillo and Tim and Denise Bowers, as well as a great uncle Jack Ertle, and other loving family. Chris is also leaving many, many dear friends. He was predeceased by his father, Terence A. Bowers, in 2010. Chris was a very unique soul, who was very spiritual and believed in the goodness of humankind. He was a very kind and caring person who touched so many lives with his poetry, drumming and philosophical discussions. He was always there to help guide others through their struggles, and worked very hard to keep himself on a healthy, spiritual path through meditation and positive energy. Chris maintained a long period of sobriety up until his passing and thoroughly embraced the freedom that recovery gave him. Chris enjoyed the outdoors and nature's beauty. Chris enjoyed camping, hiking, and fishing with his friends and family, but especially sharing these experiences with his son, Azure, whom he named after the deep blue skies that he cherished. The family would like to thank all of Chris' friends that supported him in his recovery and were there for him. They would also like to thank his "Tramily" at the Tramontaine Cafe and his friends at Utica Brews for allowing him to express himself through his music and poetry. This was a huge part of his sobriety and happiness. A Celebration of Chris's Life will be held at 6:00 PM Saturday, March 25, 2017, at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, Inc., 100 Otsego St., Ilion, officiated by Trevor Judson, a minister and childhood friend of Chris. Calling hours for family and friends are Saturday from 3:00 PM until the time of the service. The family welcomes all Chris' friends and family to join them in a Celebration of Life immediately after the services at the Ilion/Frankfort VFW, 4274 Acme Road, Frankfort. Anyone who would like to play an instrument, read poetry or share a story is welcome to do so at that time. Anyone bringing a dish can begin dropping off at the VFW 4:00 or after. To leave an online condolence and light a candle please go to www.whiter-hendrix.com.