Meet Bruce
Bruce Bowen
Emeritus
My Why
Why did you choose financial planning?
I earned a degree in finance and business management, and I grew up watching my dad solve problems, help people, and support them through difficult times in their lives. That left a lasting impression on me, I wanted to do work that mattered, just like he did.
What keeps you passionate about this work?
The friendships I’ve developed with clients and the opportunity to help them solve real problems are what keep me going. I especially feel it when I run into clients outside the office and get to reconnect as friends. Some of the early clients I helped were young fathers. One was a diesel mechanic; he passed away from a brain tumor at just 29. I’ll never forget visiting him in the hospital. After he died, I helped his young family with everything from managing their budget to something as small as pumping gas. That kind of impact never leaves you.
What’s your story behind becoming an advisor?
I dove headfirst into the business without leaning on my dad for help. After one of my first meetings, I knew this was the right path for me. I wanted to earn trust on my own and build something meaningful, one relationship at a time.
In the Office
What would you change or wish you did different
I would’ve asked more questions. Listening always gets your farther.
What would you do/what is your strategy for?
Shut up and listen. People tell you what they need if you just give them the space to share it.
How I Connect with People
Through humor. I’ve always believed that laughter disarms people and builds trust. I even had a big plastic pig on my desk, when you reached in for candy, it would oink.
What Folks Say About My Calls
They usually ask, “What’s the joke of the day?” My clients look forward to the humor and the fact that I’m calling just to check in, not sell anything.
Why I Still Make the Calls
Calling clients personally is one of the best things I’ve ever done. In today’s disconnected world, those calls are my way of staying emotionally connected and keeping a pulse on how people are really doing. I’ve had more than one person tell me I was the only one who called on their birthday. That means something. It’s become part of who I am.
How are you involved with the team/ do you stay connected as an emeritus member?
I still make birthday calls. It’s a small gesture, but it keeps me connected to the people I’ve served for so many years.
Out of the Office
What do you love to do outside work?
I love watching and participating in sports, especially with my kids and grandkids. Yardwork is something I enjoy, it helps me disconnect and clear my head. I’ve always loved fishing, especially up the canyon, casting into rivers. I’ve also loved family campouts, watching wildlife, and anything on National Geographic. Photography has always been a hobby of mine, especially of the outdoors.
How do you spend time with family or friends?
We visit grandkids in different states, take family trips to places like Hawaii, Costa Rica, and Jackson Hole, and get together often for family dinners.
What do you love about living in Utah/American Fork?
I was born and raised here. My mom was born in Alpine, and my dad was from Highland, so this place has always felt like home. I love the changing seasons and the long-term relationships I’ve built over the years. Back in the day, you knew everyone in town.
Fun Facts
Favorite Food:
Pizza, Marco’s in Utah, NYPD Pizza in Arizona
Go-To Movie:
Dances with Wolves, Braveheart, or The Last of the Mohicans
Weekend Ritual:
Sunday Church Service, Sports and watching 60 minutes
Favorite Band:
Andrea Bocelli, Josh Groban, and Creedence Clearwater Revival
Secret Talent:
Photography
Value I Live By:
“My word is my bond.” And I believe, “When you tell the truth, you never have to remember what you said.”
Favorite thing about being a grandparent
The hugs from my grandkids, the pictures they draw, and going to the movies together.
What do your grandkids call you?
Gramps
Best “grandparent move” I’m known for (spoiling, storytelling, etc.)
Silly jokes, bad dad shirts, and a healthy dose of fun.
Something I don’t miss about working full time
I don’t have to wear a suit and tie every day.
My typical day in retirement
I start my day by checking the news and other important updates. I make birthday calls, check the calendar, do a little yard work or service, and visit friends when I can.
One thing I wish I’d known before I retired
You’re not just retiring from something, you’re retiring to something.
Favorite joke
A man and his wife are grocery shopping. She steals a can of peaches, and they end up in court. The judge asks her why she stole it, and she says they were poor and needed food. The judge says she’ll have to serve a day in prison for every peach she stole. Her husband blurts out, “She stole a can of peas!”
