Robert William "Bill" Bowser

Bill was a wonderful husband, brother of 4, father of 8, grandfather of 17, great-grandfather of 32, and friend to many. He was preceded in death by 3 siblings, his son, and 4 grandchildren. He will be missed by many. 

He was born in Omaha, NE. In 1944, his family moved to Tacoma, WA, where he attended school and enhanced his love of music, learning the clarinet. He joined the Air Force in 1949, serving 10 years. 

He married his high school sweetheart, Gerry Disch, in 1950, and they raised 7 girls and 1 boy. 

Bill’s faith in God and how he loved the outdoors were intertwined. His deep love of nature, adventure and the outdoors was instilled in his children with countless road trips, camping, canoeing, hiking and skiing. Ross Lake was a favorite destination, where they spent many trips soaking in the surroundings. Two of his children got into downhill ski racing, and he was very involved in the races. 

Bill retired from the Boeing Company in 1990. He had held a second night job to care for his family of ten. He was devoted to his family, working tirelessly to support and encourage them.

He was a member of Snohomish County Search and Rescue and The Mountaineers for years. He loved volunteering at Everett General Hospital, caring for infants in the ICU for over 4,000 hours. He was recognized in The Everett Herald for this. He was always ready and willing to help his family and others.

In 1999 he met and fell in love with Connie McLaughlin, married her and began the best adventure of his life. They shared over 6 years full time RVing, settled in Mesa, AZ, then moved to LaConner, WA, continuing their adventures throughout the U.S., Canada, Alaska and Northern Mexico. They loved RVing and Cruises.

As Bill grew older, needing care, they moved to Burlington, WA, then to Assisted Living in Shoreline, WA. At 96 years old, Bill died peacefully in his sleep with Connie holding his hand. A service will be held at Mt. Vernon Presbyterian Church on Saturday, October 10th at 10:30 am. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be given to Bill’s favorite charity, Central Asia Institute, 2409 W. Main St.,Bozeman, MT 59718.