Jack Sowers

Jack Sowers Jack Clair Sowers passed away unexpectedly at home December 3rd, 2012 from an apparent heart attack. He lived a full and vigorous life up to the very end, having cut down his own Christmas tree on a family outing just hours before passing away. He was working as an Associate Psychologist at Western State Hospital and was an active member of the Olympia Masonic Lodge. An award winning artist, a studied professional psychologist, a spiritual leader, and a committed husband, father and grandfather, he was a true renaissance man with diverse interests. He passionately strove for a deeper understanding of humanity, spirituality, and the world. Jack aka "Rusty" was born December 24th, 1938 to Arlene and Clair Sowers at home in Oakdale, CA. Growing up on the "mean streets" of Stockton, CA, he left home at 17 to join the US Air Force. After serving four honorable years, he returned to California and married his first wife, Jennifer (Sexton) Sowers, started a family and pursued an education, later moving to Utah and graduating in 1967 from Brigham Young University where he studied art and psychology. Returning to California, he pursued a career as a psychologist for the state while raising three children and continuing to develop his talents as a sculptor and painter. In 1980 he moved his family to Olympia, WA and applied his artistic abilities to establish an etched mirror business. Later, he continued his education and in 1992 received a Master's Degree in psychology from Chapman University. He subsequently worked for the state of Washington as a Forensic Therapist Supervisor and Program Services Manager at the Washington Special Commitment Center, and most recently as a Psychology Associate at Western State Hospital. During this time he became a leader in the Olympia Masonic Lodge #1, serving as Worshipful Master in 2005, and single-handedly overseeing the scholarship program for many years. He continued to actively pursue his work as an artist, winning several awards, including "Best in Show" at the 2009 Peninsula Art Association Show for his portrait in oils. He was preceded in death by his father Clair Sowers and his mother Arlene (Thrasher) Sowers. He is survived by his wife of 13 years Michael Mary, his brother Jimmy Sowers (Karen) of Acampo, CA, and his sister Kathlene Perry (Doug) of Lodi, CA; his five children, Dione Winter (Rod) of Hoquiam, WA, Jeffrey Sowers (Robyn), Ryan Sowers (Jean), Aaron MacLean, and Adrienne MacLean of Olympia, WA; his nine grandchildren, Kenneth Scobee (Cindy), Rebecca Kane (Zach), Codie Davis, River Winter, Francis Johannes, Corbyn Morisette, Josh Sowers, Ventura Sowers, and Rowan Sowers; and his five great grandchildren, Chase, Liam, Isabelle, Leilanni, and Adeline. A kind, creative, and thoughtful man to all who knew him, Jack will be sorely missed by his family and many friends. A memorial service will be held December 15th, 2012 at 3pm at The Olympia #1 Masonic Temple. 521 North St SE Tumwater, WA. A gathering for family and friends in the reception area will follow.