Tracy Samuel Bowen Jr., decorated veteran
Tracy Samuel (Sonny) Bowen Jr. 76, of Lewes, formerly of Franklin, Pa., and Deptford, N.J,. passed away at home with his wife of 48 years by his side, Sunday, June 17, 2018, in Lewes. He was born Thursday, July 17, 1941, in Franklin, son of the late Tracy S. and Mildred Bowen.
Tracy proudly served as a petty officer in the U.S. Navy for 20 years. He received a Navy Medal of Commendation with "V" Device, along with several other medals and was acknowledged by then President Lyndon Johnson during the Vietnam War. Following retirement from the Navy, he then worked for them repairing hydraulics on U.S. Army ships.
In his spare time, Tracy loved to go bowling, and he was the commander of the VFW for several years. He was an avid Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies sports fan, and he followed Penn State to appease his son-in-law. Tracy loved the family Army/Navy Game Day rivalry that continues to this day. He loved spending time with his grandchildren, and loved to talk and share stories with everyone he met.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Bowen was preceded in death by his sister, Doris Mae Tarr. He is survived by his loving wife, Roseanne Bowen; his children: Katrina Stier and her husband Scott, Tracy Bowen III and his wife Julie, and Charles Bowen and his wife Jane; his grandchildren: Kyle Bowen, Charli Brook Bowen and Mathew Bowen; his one great-grandchild, Edward Bowen; and his nephews: Wayne and Adam Gross.
A Celebration of Tracy's Life will be held Sunday, July 1, from 1 to 4 p.m., at Angola Estates Community Center, 22971 Suburban Blvd., Lewes. You are asked to dress in summer colors and no black. Tracy wanted a celebration and laughter. There will be a short memorial service followed by a celebration. He will be entombed at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C. at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Tracy's name to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963, and the ASPCA, 22918 Dupont Blvd., Georgetown, DE 19947.
Arrangements by Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, Lewes.
Please visit Tracy's Life Memorial Webpage and sign his online guest book at www.parsellfuneralhomes.com.
