Charles Bowens Jr.

Charles S. Bowens, age 95, of Toms River, passed away peacefully, reunited at last with his beloved wife, Loretta. Born in East Paterson, Charles later attended Lodi High School, where he met the love of his life, Loretta Artalie. The two married young (in 1952), beginning a lifelong journey grounded in faith, family, and devotion.
A proud United States Navy veteran, Charles served his country from 1951–1955, was stationed on the Destroyer USS Bearss 654, he earned the rank of Second-Class Petty Officer and fought in the Korean War. He often shared stories of his service, treasuring his years at sea, his fellow sailors, and the sense of duty that shaped his life.
Following his time in the Navy, Charles was a Milk Man in Fair Lawn running Bowens Dairy where he delivered milk in the early hours of the morning, often with his sons helping him. He then embarked on a very long career with UPS, where he faithfully delivered packages. The job suited him well-he had already mastered the route of hard work and early mornings during his time as a young milkman, providing for his growing family. He enjoyed driving so much that in his retirement he delivered flowers for Dayton Florist and as part of St. Justin's Church he and Loretta (and his dog Bailey) would bring plants and condolences to the families of parishioners who passed away.
Charles was a passionate history enthusiast-especially of the Civil War-he could finish a book in a few hours, was an avid reader of newspapers and had an amazing ability to remember absolutely everything. He enjoyed watching the NY Yankees and the NY Giants, mostly when they were winning. His love of gardening would be an understatement as he enjoyed watching the fruits of his labor grow and passing that wisdom on to whomever wanted to learn. His love for his loyal dog Bailey was unwavering no matter what she chewed on as a puppy, and if you caught him when he was talkative, he loved recounting his stories about sailing all over the world in the Navy or about life on the Bowens family farm.
Above all else, Charles was a family man. He and Loretta proudly raised six children, giving them a foundation built on faith, loyalty, humor, and love. Charles was predeceased by his wife, Loretta (Artalie) Bowens, his oldest son, Charles Bowens, III, and his loving brother, Donald Bowens. He leaves behind his sister, Mary Lou Brown and her husband John, his children Christopher Bowens and Noreen, Cliff Bowens and Colleen, Curt Bowens and Jennifer, Craig Bowens, Laura Lee Bowens and Christina Kennedy. He also leaves behind several grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Charles will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Yet, there is peace in knowing he is now where his heart longed to be-at home again with Loretta (and Bailey).