Joseph L. Bowman

Nov. 4, 1931 – Sept. 29, 2018

Joseph L. Bowman was born Nov. 4, 1931, to Harry and Ida Bowman in Tacoma, Washington.

The family moved to the Oliver Ranch between John Day and Prairie City when he was about 4 years old and later moved to the Laycock Ranch. Joe started school at the Bellshaw School between John Day and Mt. Vernon; he then moved to Mt. Vernon where he grew up.

In 1950, he married Lula Hickerson. They had one son, Robert, and later the marriage ended in a divorce. Joe was a partner in the “Grant County Cleaners and Laundry” with Carol Rose. On July 31, 1950, Joe entered the United States Navy and was honorably discharged with a Permanent Disability Retired Certificate in August of 1953. In 1961 he joined the American Legion and remained a member for 57 years at the Milwaukie American Legion Post 180.

In December 2007, Joe married Diane E. Nordhagen in Milwaukie, Oregon, and lived there the rest of his life.

Joe passed on Sept. 29 with his family present in their home.

He was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers, two sisters and a longtime friend and partner Marcella Eng.

He is survived by his wife, Diane; son Robert (Annette); step-daughter Debbie (George); three grandchildren; step daughter Oyln Capelle; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral arrangements are being held by Omega Funeral and Cremation Service. On Oct.17, a viewing will be held from 9-11 a.m. at Omega Funeral and Cremation Service, 223 SE 122nd, Portland, Oregon (503-231-8030). Funeral services will be held at noon at Willamette National Cemetery, Portland, Oregon (503-273-5250). A memorial will be held at 1:30 p.m. at American Legion Post 180, 2146 SE Monroe, Milwaukie, Oregon (503-659-1300).

Merrill McKern, 98, of Portland, formerly of Mt. Vernon, passed away Sept. 15 at Laurel Parc senior living center in Portland. His cremains with be placed in the columbarium at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland at 2:30 p.m. on Oct. 22 with military honors. Later memorials will be arranged for family and friends in Eugene, Florence and Mt. Vernon.