Raymond James Bowen, 54, a resident of the Upper Skagit Indian Community, passed away on Friday, March 18, 2011 at the Harborview Medical Center in Seattle.
He was born on November 25, 1956 in Burlington, Washington, the son of Ralph and Peggy (Washington) Copeland. When Ray was five years of age his mother passed away and he was adopted and raised by Imogene and Jack Bowen, Sr.
Ray was raised and attended school in the Skagit Valley area. In 1981 he moved to California, returning to Skagit Valley in 2001.
He worked as a personal in home care provider for many years.
Ray is survived by his daughter, Quintina Bowen, and his three grandchildren, Nakiya, Nakesha, and Notah Edwards, of Everett. His sister and Best Friend, Mary Washington; eight sisters, Diane Copeland, Marlilee Teton, Margene Washington, Dixie Hess, Tina Talley, Cali Gomez, Kay Knott and Gina Fredberg. Six brothers, Jack, John, Jay and Joe Bowen, Rick Stevenette and Michael Griffin and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, L. Shawn Wittrock.
A Prayer Service was held on Monday, March 21, 2011 at 7:00 PM. Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday, March 22, 2011 at 10:00 AM at the Upper Skagit Tribal Gym in Sedro-Woolley with John Cayou and Father Pat Twohy, SJ officiating. Interment will be at the Washington Family Cemetery in Rockport. Arrangements are under the direction of Lemley Chapel, Sedro-Woolley. Share memories of Ray and sign the online guest register at www.lemleychapel.com
I’m so sorry to hear of Ray’s passing. We were very close for many years during and after high school. Some of my best memories are ones where I was with him and other friends (usually getting into some kind of mischief!). Even though I haven’t seen him in several years I will miss him, knowing that he isn’t around any more. My condolences to the family. You are in my prayers.
to the family, especially my friend Cali. I love you Girl!! So sorry for this great loss!! and to Mary, my heart goes out to you and the rest of the family . May God love and keep you safe.
I’am so sorry to hear of your loss. I wiil miss his beautiful smile and his ‘always’ happy attitude. I will miss him deeply.It was a pleasure and an honor knowing him. He will be in my heart and memory forever.
Iam so sorry to hear of your loss. I wiil miss his beautiful smile and his ‘always’ happy attitude. I will miss him deeply.It was a pleasure and an honor knowing him. He will be in my heart and memory forever.
Sorry for ur lost. I will pray for u guys.love you all
Ray you were a blessing to know. Thank you for shareing your spirit with me. R.I.P. I am glad I knew you.