Loren Eugene “Gene” Bonwell (1926-2003)

Loren Eugene “Gene” Bonwell

Birth

20 Jun 1926

Withrow, Douglas County, Washington, USA

Death

17 Aug 2003 (aged 77)

Chelan County, Washington, USA

Burial

Evergreen Memorial Park

East Wenatchee, Douglas County, Washington, USA Add to Map

Memorial ID

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Gene passed on to be with the love of his life on August 17, 2003 while doing his favorite pastime, camping with family members. He was 77 years old. Gene was born to Francis and Lydia Bonwell on June 20, 1926 in Withrow, WA. Gene was the youngest of 14 children. On August 21, 1948 he married Marianne Heyen. Gene spent the next 51 wonderful years with Marianne before she died August 26, 1999.

He joined the US Army March 22, 1946 and served until October 31, 1947. He was discharged a Corporal Tech in Elpaso, TX.

He worked as a carpenter on various dams along the Columbia River, but spent most of his working years as a truck driver. He retired from Oak Harbor Freight Lines 12 years ago. After his retirement, he began his favorite pastime camping with his children and grandchildren. He died while camping at the Icicle River with his daughter, Terri and husband Clay and his youngest daughter, Kerri Lin. God blessed his family with many years of his love and wisdom. He also chose to bring him home at a brief moment with no pain or suffering.

Gene is survived by his 8 children and spouses, Linda Witt (Bob) Wenatchee, Mary Flynn (Dick) Kalispell, MT, Kathy Arnold (Tom) Spokane, Frank Bonwell (Deb) East Wenatchee, Brad Bonwell (Cel), Dave Bonwell (Wendy), Teri Durham (Clay), Kerri Lin Bonwell; grandchildren, Brain, Annie, David, Lara, Steffanie, Tom, Julie, Laurie, Brandon, Clay Jr.; and 1 great grandchild due in September, Lauren Estelle May Austin.

Gene was preceded in death by his loving wife, his mother and father, 13 brothers and sisters, infant son, and 1 grandson.

There will be a graveside service Thursday, August 21, 2003 at Evergreen Memorial Cemetery, East Wenatchee at 11:00 a.m. Reverend Bob Jackson officiating. All are invited to attend a lunch provided by the American Legion following the service. Memorials may be made to Special Olympics or Spurs and Spokes. Arrangements by Telfords Chapel of the Valley.

"Dear Dad and Mom, our tears flow as we miss you so, you will be in our hearts forever. We love you, Your loving children."