Steamboat Pilot & Today

WILLIAM BOWES

1950-2002

William T. "Billy" Bowes, 51, of Strawberry Park in Steamboat Springs, died May 9, 2002, at his home. He was born Aug. 28, 1950, in Portland, Ore., the son of William A. and Marie (Rose) Bowes of Steamboat. Billy grew up in Steamboat since the age of 10 and was a graduate of Steamboat Springs High School. He married Lynn Stroetzel Sept. 15, 1979, in Pine Bluffs, Wyo. She survives. Billy graced us with his passion for living during his time on earth. He was a unique person. His artistic talents showed through in all he did, from woodworking to playing with his children, to his time to himself. Billy's enthusiasm for life motivated those of us around him to push our abilities beyond the "comfort zones." Billy had the ability to make the most of every situation he encountered; he was truly wealthy in life. He thoroughly enjoyed his family time and had many interests, including woodworking, sailing, skiing, snowmobiling, mountain biking, camping, landscaping and gardening.

Family and friends will dearly miss his smile and easygoing mannerisms. Survivors include his wife, Lynn; his parents, William and Marie; a son, Daniel "Dan"; his daughter, Nicole; two brothers, Jim and wife Anita of Barre, Vt., and Michael of Las Vegas, Nev.; four sisters, Mary Sue and husband Joe Rife of Steamboat Springs, Kim Bowes of Grand Junction, Heidi and husband Tony Nunnikhoven of Steamboat Springs, Tammy and husband Patrick Delaney of Hayden; a brother-in-law, Dave and wife Debbie Stoetzel of Buffalo, Wyo.; two sisters-in-law, Deb and husband Earl Smith of Marienthal, Kan., and Melissa and husband Abe Raja of Serdang, Malaysia; and a father-in-law, James and wife Ann Stoetzel of Tucson, Ariz.

A celebration of Billy's life was held May 13, 2002, in the backyard of the Bowes' family home. Officiating was Rev. Warren Geldmeier of the Steamboat Springs Evangelical Free Church.

Memorials may be sent to the Christian Heritage School of Steamboat Springs, P.O. Box 773149, Steamboat Springs, 80477. Mike Peterson of Peterson Funeral Home was entrusted with Billy's arrangements.