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BORN
1936
DIED
2023
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Robert Bowles Obituary
December 11, 1936 - August 7, 2023
World traveler, loving husband, and father, Robert Nicholas "Nick" Bowles passed away of complications from COPD. Nick was in the loving presence of his wife of over forty years, Marilyn, his daughter, Kathy, and his granddaughter, Wendy.
Nick lived a rich and full life. He was born in Colorado and moved to Richmond, California in 1939, where his father worked as an engineer supporting the war effort. Nick's family were among the earliest Kaiser healthcare members - in fact, Nick's Kaiser number was 13!
Nick attended El Cerrito High School, graduating in 1954. He worked his way through UC Berkeley where he graduated in 1958. Nick's brilliant mind awakened in a freshman chemistry class taught by a Nobel laureate, who managed a surprise explosion during every class. In his third year at Cal, Nick surveyed the job market and decided to switch his major from nuclear physics to business.
Nick began his professional career as an accountant with John F. Forbes in San Francisco. He was the youngest person in Forbes' history to make partner, and later headed the firm's Management Consulting Practice. Nick finished his career at K/P Companies as their Chief Financial Officer and principal negotiator of sales and acquisitions.
In the 1970's, Nick proudly co-hosted the El Cerrito Games, an epic New Year's tradition for family and friends.
Nick had many interests. He was an outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating and scuba diving. He even owned several exotic pets, including his beloved moray eel, Boris, as well as a pet skunk.
In retirement, Nick and Marilyn became world travelers. Nick was an adventurer who loved meeting new people and experiencing new cultures. He traveled to every continent, over 150 countries, and all fifty states.
Nick will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family and his many friends. The family is grateful for the care that Hospice provided Nick. A celebration of Nick's life is being planned.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Bowles
Sponsored by Neptune Society - Walnut Creek.
Barbara Okun
August 4, 2025
Remembering our travels and visits together with much fondness.
Katherine Lytle
October 7, 2024
Nick, I want to thank you for making my working with you so comfortable.
You were definitely a terrific boss. Thank you always. Kathy Lytle (Murphy)
Thank with all my heartfelt love. Kathy Lytle (Murphy)
Katherine Lytle (Murphy)
October 1, 2024
Nick..Most definitely you were the best boss to work for. Thank you for your patience and teaching. I will keep you in my prayers. Love, Kathy Lytle (Murphy)
Kathy Lytle (Murphy)
October 1, 2024
Nick,
Most assuredly you were the most wonderful best boss that I have ever had. My fondest condolences for your life with God. Thank you for your patient guidance. Love you, Kathy Lytle (Murphy).
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Wendy Bogin and Scott Kane
August 13, 2023
We worked with Nick at KP for a number of years - he was a patient teacher, and had a great sense of humor. He will be missed- may his memory be a blessing.
Barbara Okun
August 12, 2023
A wonderful friend and I appreciate all the time we spent traveling together.
Parandis Banifatemi
August 11, 2023
I am so sorry and sad to hear this.
I was Nick´s personal trainer several years ago. We had the best conversations and he was so happy that he had traveled to Iran. We shared stories together while training. I would visited him and Maryanne at their house. I promised to bring them Persian food and enjoy an evening together. He never had time. Either he was traveling or she wasn´t available. He told me let´s plan for first week of October! But now it´s too late.
My sincere condolences to you and family.May God bless his soul.
Neptune Society of Northern California
August 9, 2023
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
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Neptune Society - Walnut Creek1855 Olympic Boulevard Suite # 110, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
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