Donald Keith Bowker, 67, a long-time resident of Anacortes, WA, passed away unexpectedly on March 18, 2024 at his home. Born on September 2, 1956, in Huntington Park, CA, Donald was the beloved son of Donald and Effie (Rice) Bowker and a cherished brother to two sisters and two brothers.

As a Californian kid at heart, Don prized mountain biking, swimming outdoors, camping, and enjoying the sunshine.  Over a span of thirty years after his high school graduation, Don's life experiences were vast and varied. He had many friends from childhood and young adulthood that he remained close friends with until the end. With an unwavering faith, he dedicated his time as an LDS church missionary in Colorado, Missouri, and Nebraska.  He was a dedicated husband to his wife, Deni, whom he married on September 22, 1979, at the Los Angeles LDS Temple. Together, they had four children: two sons and two daughters. He especially loved his career as a union machinist working at Shell and Tesoro refineries in Los Angeles, CA, and Anacortes, WA, where he moved his family to in 1992 and has been a resident since.

Throughout his life, Don enjoyed working on cars and fixing anything that came his way. He diligently passed his knowledge of repairing cars down to his children, showing them how to use and care for tools. He loved RC cars, Hot Wheels, and Volkswagens. He was always willing to help anyone and would never accept anything in return. He was always at one of his children's houses, helping to repair, renovate, or build something new.

Don was known for his stubbornness and ornery nature, but he was a loving and devoted father. He coached his children and grandchildren in their favorite sports, such as baseball, basketball, softball, and soccer. He loved oldies' music and always had CCR or James Taylor playing. He had the biggest sweet tooth despite his health concerns. He was an upholder of traditions, especially with his family. Decorating for holidays, making sugar cookies for Christmas, Easter eggs on Easter, chocolates for Valentine's Day, corned beef for St Patrick's Day, Prime Rib for Christmas Eve, and strawberry waffles for Christmas morning, he loved them all. During his 14-year retirement, he doted on and spoiled his 11 grandchildren.  They enjoyed sitting on his lap and taking rides on his walker and lawn mower. He loved watching them play sports. Some even loved stealing his clothes. His most favorite things were hugs and kisses from his babies.  Don lived to be a grandpa.

Don was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Mike Bowker and Susie Conners. He is survived by his wife of 44.5 years, Deni; their four children and their spouses: Bekki (Ren Tarvin), Ryan (Michelle), Ian (Lauren), Kylee (Steven Siilata); 11 grandchildren: Ava, Bria, Cooper, LandyJo, Malia, Falon, Kaison, Deacon, Luca, Anaia, and Lokeni; and his remaining siblings: Bill Bowker and Mary Kay Fort.

Don will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. He loved and served unconditionally and welcomed anyone into his life without judgment. He will be watching over his family, waiting with open arms for them to join him one day.  His Memorial Service will be held at Noon on April 13, 2024, at The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints in Anacortes, WA. His final resting place will be at Fernhill Cemetery.

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