James R. "Jake" Bowen

After a welding career of 36 years, he retired from Newport News Shipyard.

Jake was one of the founding members of the Tidewater Bass Busters Club; he served as President for many years. He loved to fish more than anything else except telling fish stories and tales. A great friend and mentor to many. He had a true Carolinian hard head with an even bigger heart.

Surviving members of his family include his son, Chip and wife, Cheryl; grandchildren, James “Jamie” R. Bowen, III, Chad and Justine Thompson; brother, Rueben and wife, Louise; and sister, Ethel Blackburn.

The family will receive friends from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, March 19, 2012 at Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home. A celebration of Jake's life will be held Tuesday, March 20, at 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Parklawn Memorial Park.

Friends are encouraged to visit www.parklawn-woodfh.com to share memories and words of condolence with the family.

Arrangements are under the care of Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home, 2551 N. Armistead Ave. in Hampton, 23666.