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BOWEN -- Fred Warren. Decorated Army Veteran, Loving Husband, Father, Grandfather, and Son are just a few of the many ways to describe Fred Warren Bowen. Fred had a "can do" attitude and fought a good fight against Alzheimer's Disease before dying amidst those who loved him on March 29, 2011. "Papa" Fred is fondly remembered for his contagious enthusiasm, playful personality and his steady reserve in dealing with anything life threw his direction. He lived by the motto of "If you say it, and you believe it, then it's true." Fred was born on January 29, 1935 in Tucumcari, NM to Charles E. and Louise Bowen. He left his hometown in 1963 married to his bride Carolyn Sue Winstead Bowen, and embarked on a career of serving his country. Fred served our country as a pilot in the United States Army for 27 years, completed two tours in Vietnam, and was awarded two Bronze Stars and a Purple Heart. In 1980 Fred retired as a Lt. Colonel from his final command in Roswell, NM. Upon his retirement from the Army he remained fiercely loyal and patriotic to his country. He proudly flew the American flag wherever he lived and the 4th of July was always a meaningful holiday for him and his family. He was also very active in the community and was a member of the Lion's Club, the Shriners, and he was a 52nd Degree Mason. Fred called many cities home before settling in Rio Rancho, NM after his retirement. Fred enjoyed spending his time with his family, his dogs, and bringing laughter and his own brand of whimsical common sense to whomever had the good fortune of coming into contact with him. Fred is survived by his wife Carolyn Sue Winstead Bowen; his three children Michael Bowen and his wife Kristi, Machele Stefhon and her husband Gerry, Melinda Bowen and her partner Lettie Carpenter; three granddaughters, Karson Bowen, Madeleine Stefhon, and Meridyth Stefhon; his mother Louise Sparks Bowen, brothers Charles and Paul Bowen, their families, and numerous nephews and nieces. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association or Hospice de la Luz c/o 4075 Jackie Road SE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124. The entire family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the caring staff and second family at The Retreat Alzheimer's Facility, Papa Fred's final home, and Hospice de la Luz. Services will be held Tuesday, April 5, 2011 at 10:00 am at Covenant United Methodist Church, 8015 Wyoming Blvd. NE. A military burial with full honors will follow at 1:30 pm at the Santa Fe National Cemetery, 501 N. Guadalupe Street, Santa Fe, NM. Those who wish to express their condolences may do so at www.danielsfuneral.com Fred's care has been entrusted to: Daniels Family Funeral Services 2400 Southern Blvd SE Rio Rancho, NM 87124 (505) 891-9192
        Published on: Sun April 03, 2011