Maxwell Rian Bowen

Aug. 20, 1988 - May 17, 2025

Maxwell Rian Bowen, born on August 20, 1988, in Upland, California, passed away on May 17, 2025, at the age of 36. Throughout his life, Max was known for his remarkable talents, sense of humor, kindness, and desire to stay close with the people he loved. Max was a gifted student and a talented athlete, excelling in every sport he tried. From a young age, he showed a passion for baseball, entertaining us by emulating the announcers he admired on the radio. He graduated from West Sound Academy and earned his Bachelor's degree from Evergreen State College, where he continued to nurture his love for music. Max was an incredibly gifted musician, adept at playing various instruments, singing, composing, and producing his own music. Music was not just a hobby for Max; it was his lifelong passion and a significant part of his identity. In his professional life, Max worked in music production, construction inspection, timber cruising, and landscaping. He remained dedicated to his craft while finding opportunities to work outdoors as much as possible. He valued the group of friends he made during his time at West Sound Academy. Many became lifelong friends who supported him throughout his life. Max found solace and companionship in his beloved dog, Tino, who became the light of his life. Max and Tino shared many adventures and supported each other through thick and thin. Max was fiercely protective of Tino, particularly during his battle with cancer, staying by his side until his passing in January 2025. Max was known for his intelligence, humor, kindness, and sweet nature. As a neurodiverse individual, he faced the challenges of navigating a world that often seemed confusing, yet he remained committed to finding his place and advocating for the things he believed in. Max was a deep and intelligent thinker. His strong convictions often led to spirited debates, reflecting his unwavering commitment to his ideals. Max is survived by his parents Drea and Mike Bowen, sister Chandler Bowen, brother Cooper Bowen, and his maternal grandparents Sharol Hall and Ed Bergquist. He was predeceased by his paternal grandparents Rita and Robert Bowen. Max will be composted at Earth Funeral, and the nutrient-rich soil created will be retained by his loved ones and donated to a conservation project in the Olympic Mountains, a place he cherished for hiking, camping and adventuring with friends and Tino. A Celebration of Life will be held to honor Max's life, music, and memory. As we remember Max, let us hold close the words of an Inuit Proverb: "Perhaps they are not stars in the sky but rather openings where the love of our lost ones shines down to let us know they are happy." Max's spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him deeply. His music will help us all remember his voice and his otherworldly talent as a musician. This Is Not Goodbye Maxine Bailey I did not want to leave you It was just my time to go I know your heart is breaking So, I need to let you know That although you can no longer see me I’ll be forever by your side I promise time will numb the pain And help dry the tears you’ve cried You can reach me in your memories Just think of me, I’ll be there In your dreams, we can visit yesteryear Where we didn’t have a care Please carry on and live your life I beg of you to try Just know we'll meet again one day As this is not goodbye In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to a cause Max cared about. The Olympic Peninsula Conservancy - https://greatpeninsula.org/support/donate/ Great Dane Rescue - https://gdca.org/shop/charitable-trust/memorial-fund/