Raymond Arthur Bowerman

October 15, 1937 - March 14, 2023
In Loving Memory ~
Ray Bowerman has taken his last flight from this earth. It is with unmeasurable sadness that we share this news of his passing. Raymond Arthur, son of Gwen and Arthur Bowerman, passed away at home on March 14, 2023 at the age of 85.
He is survived by his life long partner Marilyn (Marty; one son, Craig (Mary-Anne); Grandson, Colten (Ashley;) Granddaughter, Ashley (Martin); the children's mother, Kristie; and his sister; Elleanor (Elly) Bowerman.
Ray loved and was loved by all members of the Haynes family Pam (Norm), Gerry (Brandie), Wayne (Ellen), Bob (Maureen), Ward (Barbara) and Pat (Ray) ( both deceased) who live through their daughters Dana (Derek) and Traci (Scott).
Ray will be missed by all of his Haynes nieces and nephews, particularly Michael and Jane Donald, to whom Ray was a substitute grandparent, loved Ray for his spirit of adventure and the way he pursued his aviation passion as well as his hobby of collecting, trains, militaria and other oddities.
The Macauley Family Jack, Margaret and their children Grant and Sharon, Marian and Rick and Glen were family too.
Ray was born in Port Alberni, and like many young men in the 50s he went straight to work at the Mill. He learned to Fly and bought a fancy 1932 Ford Roadster, the Candy Apple Roadster, and had fun.
He ended a long career as a Saw Filer in plenty of time to enjoy retirement. A career highlight was when he received a letter from the Mill Manager saying the filing room had set industry records, achieving some of the narrowest kerfs in saws allowing for the greatest productivity from the logs.
Rays' meticulous nature and care to detail worked well in this line of work. He was shocked to hear they now have disposable saws. The Manager's letter went on to say he envied Ray, the way he pursued his aviation passion so enthusiastically and lived his life so fully.
What made the boy want to Fly? Perhaps the planes flying over Port Alberni to Tofino Air Base in 1941 or 42, when he heard those engines, his mom said he would climb up on the fence to see the planes. He earned his Pilots Licence before he learned to drive a car. He owned 23 different planes, always changing up for more speed, a better paint scheme, or a military designation.
His flying ended at 84 in a classic Cessna 172 CG URB. His log books are full of names of people with whom he shared his passion. He was a strong promoter of general aviation, working hard to bring flying schools to Port Alberni and working to get a plane for the club.
While wintering in Casa Grande he owned 3 different light aircraft and flew all over Arizona. He belonged to EAA and Antique Aircraft Association, volunteering at all fly-in events. He always enjoyed boating, dabbled with motor bikes, and loved old cars and the Bee Gees.
The last few months he has spent hours watching U Tube Airshows. The house was filled with engine sounds and Craig and Ray playing "name that plane".
His life was well lived. Ray was a loving husband, father, grandfather, family member and friend. Thank You Drs Lambiotte & Woodley, Catherine & Tracey, amazing Community Health Nurses, Jace, VIHA Telemonitoring, and dear Lexie, for aiding his journey.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Port Alberni Hospice or Heart and Stroke of BC, or your choice of charity.
Celebration of Life was held on March 25, 2023 1:00 to 4:00 at the Alberni Golf Club.
To send a condolence to the family please visit www.yatesmemorial.ca
Yates Memorial Services
250-723-5859
"Lives Cherished and Celebrated"

 Yates Memorial Services