William (Bill) R. Bowen

William (Bill) R. Bowen, 69, died Jan. 10, 2013, at Mat-Su Regional Medical Center in Palmer surrounded by his family. He had been diagnosed with cancer in November 2012.

Bill was born July 1, 1943, in Eugene, Ore., to Hilda and Bill Bowen. Bill was a graduate of Oregon State University and went on to teach at schools in Oregon, Washington and Alaska. He had owned his own high-pressure washing business In Washington and Alaska. Later, he worked at dairy farms in Point MacKenzie and finally at Napa Auto parts in Wasilla.

He was preceded in death by his mother, father and brothers, Raymond and Bud Comstock.

Surviving are his son, Duane of Anchorage; numerous nieces and nephews in the Lower 48; and his ex-wife, Karen Bowen of Anchorage, to whom he was married for 27 years.

While living in Washington he, along with his wife and son, operated a small farm raising cows and pigs. He also operated a custom haying operation. Bill had a calling to help other people. During his marriage, his wife and he cared for several foster children and a family of four that had been flooded out of their home. In Wasilla, he also helped people less fortunate than himself.

Gary Collins, a friend of Bill’s, said Bill wanted to be remembered as a strong, vital and fiercely independent person better known as “the bear.” The family would like to recognize and thank Gary for his efforts to help Bill during his final days.

Per Bill’s request, he will be cremated and his ashes spread over Copper River, where he loved spending time fishing.

In lieu of flowers, you may make a donation to the American Cancer Society.

A memorial service is pending.