CENTER TWP — Jim Bowser's bowling legacy around Butler is well-known.

His dedication to the sport will soon be recognized statewide.

Bowser, 71, will officially be inducted into the Pennsylvania State Bowling Association Hall of Fame during the PSBA's annual convention July 7 in Harrisburg.

“I'm the chairperson for that dinner, so I guess I'll know who's all coming,” the Butler resident said, laughing.

So it goes with Bowser, who has held numerous bowling positions in Butler County and the state for decades. He served as Butler County Bowling Association manager for more than 15 years.

He was a PSBA vice president for a few years and was PSBA president in 2003-04, the year Butler hosted the state tournament. Bowser was one of the key figures in bringing the state tourney to Butler in 1994 as well.

A league bowler for more than 40 years, Bowser has never bowled a sanctioned perfect game. He has been an officer in several bowling leagues.”

He considers himself an “OK” bowler, having carried a single-season average as high as 204.

“I'm going into the Hall for meritorious service,” Bowser said. “That's the only way it was going to happen for me.

“I was always hoping this would happen someday. Of course, you never know. It's out of your hands. I've been under consideration for the past six years or so ... I guess my time just came. It really is a feeling of joy for me.”

Entering this year's PSBA convention, there are 109 Hall of Fame members. The Hall of Fame made its first inductions in 1976.

Bowser becomes the first Butler County resident and Butler County association member to gain induction into the PSBA HOF. Mike Shenesky of Zelienople was inducted for bowling ability in 1998, but was a member of the Beaver Valley association.

Richard Bower of the Butler County association was inducted in 2007, but he lives in Ford City.

Hall of Fame members, along with a small committee, vote on individuals nominated for induction.

“Few people are put in the position of being considered above their peers by their peers,” said Mike Coyle, longtime county association board member and a former PSBA president. “That is the honor Jim is receiving. And it's well-deserved.”

Bowser and Coyle have been close friends in and out of the bowling fraternity for years.

“When Jim was in the Marines, one of his duties was to take care of the bowling center,” Coyle said. “That's what first got him the itch for the sport. That developed into a passion.

“Jim is always offering to help. When somebody needs help, he's there.”

Andy Hevesy is the longtime general manager of Family Bowlaway and described Bowser as “the nicest guy you'll ever meet and a tremendous representative of the sport.

“He's such a personable guy, very analytical in his approach and decision-making. He never loses his cool with anyone and he's always very fair in judgment.

“I can't begin to describe the impact Jim Bowser has had on bowling in this area,” Hevesy added.

Bowser said the late Hal Phillips, who preceded him as county manager, “was my mentor. He showed me how things should be done.”

Longtime county association member Bob Durr said he respects Bowser for being a “hands on” contributor to the board for so long.

“Jim's had his hands in making bowling better around here for decades,” Durr said. “He's never been afraid to talk, to speak up at meetings and about issues.

“When he has something to say, he says it. And his opinion is always well-respected.”

Coyle agreed.

“This is years of hard work being rewarded. It's a great, great thing to see,” Coyle said.