Mr. William A. Bowen, age 83, of Port Byron, died Sunday at Clifton Springs Hospital.
Bill was born in Seneca Falls, January 17, 1930, the son of William A. and Roseina Ward Bowen Sr. He attended Mynderse Academy.
He retired in 1985 from GTE/Phillips after 33 years of service. He then went to work for a few years at Ed & Jeans Grocery Store in Port Byron.
Bill was a member of the United Steel Workers Union and the GTE Quarter Century Club.
In his youth, and through the 50’s and early 60’s, he worked with his father, a well known area horse dealer around the Port Byron and Seneca Falls area.
Bill was sought after for his expertise as a horse trainer and farrier. He was a regular in horse show and rodeo arenas throughout New York State and was a top competitor winning many awards for his horsemanship.
He was an avid sportsman who enjoyed deer hunting, snowmobiling, 4-wheeling and spending time with “the boys” on weekends. He especially loved the North Country and spending time at his camp in Natural Bridge, NY.
Bill is survived by his wife of 62 years, Mary L. “Taffy”; one son William, two daughters Jackie (Dan) Arquette of Auburn and Christine (Timothy) O’Connell of Weedsport; grand daughters, Melissa (Michael) Reed of South Hilton and Brandy (Matt) Victory of Oswego; beloved great-grandchildren, Ellie, Sophia, Reed, twins William Patrick and Benjamin Michael, Reed, and Caden Nash Victory; a sister Jane Sherlock of Arizona; several nieces, nephews and cousins.
In keeping with Bill’s wishes, there will be no calling hours or service. Bill enjoyed life to the fullest, therefore a Memorial Celebration celebrating his love of life will be held for family and friends on Saturday, January 4th from 3-6pm at the Sunset Restaurant, Division Street, Auburn, NY.
Contributions in Bill’s memory can be made to the Port Byron Fire Department, SPCA or to a charity of ones choice.
Linda Reed Stackel
Taffy and family…So sorry to hear of Wild Bill passing. I have to just smile, tho. As I remember him. he was a very special part of our childhood..he represented all that is so good and so fun.What a great attitude he had! As he would wish, remember him for the zesty guy he was..he sure did love life..know that my thoughts are with you all.Wish I could make the memorial, but time is always so short. You are in my thoughts and prayers..Bless all of you! Love, Linda
Evrand (Randy) Blass
Bill and Jackie and the rest of the Bowen family,
I’m very sorry to hear of the loss of your father.
With deepest sympathy,
Randy
Joan
Chris, Taffy and Family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Joan