Warren W. Bowers, 93, of Gloucester, entered into eternal rest on July 15, 2014 at his beloved Riverside Walter Reed Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.
Warren enjoyed a 41-year career with C&P Telephone Company (now Verizon), starting at the bottom, just out of high school, and rising to District Manager of Government Communications in Washington, D.C. His last assignment included White House/Presidential telecommunications. This assignment carried a tremendous responsibility and a source of great pride.
Warren retired to Gloucester in 1981 and continued many wonderful friendships made during his career as “telephone man.” He was a member of the Corinthian Lodge No. 266, Norfolk; a 32nd degree Scottish Rite Mason and a member of Khedive Shrine, Chesapeake. Warren’s motto was “I feel I am here to help others” and he did so through 60 plus years as a member of Lions International, having served as president all over Virginia as a result of work relocations. He was a dedicated member and could always be depended upon to work the many tiring fundraising events until he was physically unable to continue.
His wife, Jane, was a longtime volunteer at Riverside Walter Reed Hospital, and after her passing, Warren continued in her stead. He loved his job and all the staff who always appreciated and tolerated his sense of humor and dedication. He loved them all, “his Walter Reed family” and was always lovingly cared for by them on his hospital admissions or ER visits; a special thank you to Kathy, Ashley and Kent.
Warren was also active in amateur radio, and was a “ham radio operator” for much of his life. His participation as the oldest Virginia member of the Navy MARS network continued until last week.
Warren lived his last few years at Sanders Assisted Living in Gloucester. He missed his “stuff” when he downsized, but tried to appreciate the community spirit. He served as president of the Residential Council for three years, resigning due to his health a month ago. Warren gave 110 percent to everything he did and was punctual to a fault; he expected no less from the world.
Warren’s family sincerely appreciates the kind, loving care he received at Sanders, especially as his health declined. Eileen, Pat, Pauline, Linda and Kim were really special to him.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Jane Bullock Bowers, who died in 2004.
He is survived by his daughters, Mary Lynn Novean and Jackie Adams (Calvin) of Newport News; grandchildren, David Adams (Lisa) of Newport News, Lindsey Betts (Weston) of Hayes; great-grandchildren, M. Sean Adams of Richmond, Danielle R. Adams of Washington, D.C., and Neil A. Doldo (Faith) of Atlanta, Ga.; three great-great-grandsons, A.J., Vincent and Dominic Doldo; a nephew, Albert F. Bowers II (Diane) of Severn, Md., and several very special friends, Lora Bashford, Fred Reed, Patricia Kaye Robbins, and Ann and Sid Dugas.
A funeral service conducted by the Rev. Fred Reed was held at 7:30 p.m. Friday, July 18, 2014, at Hogg Funeral Home, Gloucester Point. The family received friends prior to the service on Friday, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the funeral home. A graveside service with Masonic Rites was held 10 a.m. Saturday, July 19, 2014, at Forest Lawn Cemetery, Norfolk, Va.
In our father’s memory, contributions may be given to Riverside Walter Reed Hospital, P.O. Box 1130, Gloucester, Va. 23061 or Gloucester-Mathews Humane Society, P.O. Box 385, Gloucester, Va. 23061.