Robert Bowser

Robert William Bowser, beloved brother, uncle and friend, passed away March 20, 2021 in Lake Bay, Washington.

Bob was born April 23, 1954 in Albuquerque, New Mexico to William Francis Bowser Jr. and Patricia Ann (Reay) Bowser. He was the second in a family of five and the only boy.  A graduate of Lakes High School and recipient of an Associate’s Degree from Clover Park Vocational College both in Lakewood Washington, he continued his education as a life-long pursuer of knowledge.  He was passionate about learning and his interests were as diverse as his curiosity. He was a self-taught mechanic, blacksmith, welder, leather worker, machinist, glass artist and so many other skills- too many to name. One accomplishment he was proud of was becoming an Eagle Scout.  He loved to read and would happily devour books from novels to textbooks.  But his greatest love was the sea. He was a commercial fisherman by trade and by heart. He loved fishing and was a patient and gifted teacher of those skills, especially to those fortunate enough to serve on his crews. Many have shared stories about how Bob had a larger impact on their lives than anyone else.

Mostly, he fished out of Kodiak Alaska, but as a young adult tried many other adventures at sea. He had large capable hands and a heart to match. One of his friends described him as “an amazing renaissance character, larger than life.” Almost as much as he loved fishing, was his love of a good story.  He loved to tell stories and could keep an audience captivated for hours swiftly moving from one to the next.

He never had any children of his own, but he cared about and mentored many a boy to manhood. He was also a wonderful brother and uncle. How we loved him! He will be remembered by all of us as someone almost larger than life with a twinkle in his eye, a hearty, loud laugh and a can-do attitude. He has left a significant hole in our lives and hearts… he will be so missed.

It can confidently be said that he is someone that has left his mark on this life.

Bob leaves behind 4 sisters; Marnelle (William) Peck, Mona Rae, Jeanette (Frank) Morris and Buffy (Terry) Bowser-Walsh. 5 Nephews; Robert Peck, Wayne Peck, Nathan Peck, Jay Morris, Brad Morris and Chris Morris. 5 Nieces; Kelli Reed, Christi Gray, Celia Rehburg, Cynthia Hoernlein and Chelsey Yearsley. Many Great nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents; William F Bowser Jr and Patricia A (Reay)

Due to covid restrictions and Bob’s intensely private personality the family has chosen to forego any formal memorial ceremony here in Washington. In Kodiak they are planning to add his name to the fishermen’s memorial, the date is pending currently.

If someone would like to donate in memory of Bob, we suggest the Fishermen’s Civic Club Scholarship fund. Send your donations to Randy Babich PO Box 429, Lakebay, WA 98349 made payable to Gig Harbor Fishermen’s Civic Club, with a memo that your donation is in honor Bob Bowser.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert Bowser, please visit our floral store.