Bonnie Jean Carper

Bonnie Jean McDowell/Gould/Carper died November 20, 2022 at age 77 at Willamette Vital Health’s Tokarski Home in Salem Oregon.

She was born October 31, 1945 in Reedsport, OR to Charles and Margaret McDowell.  She was the 5th of 6 siblings - Aunt June and Uncle Jim remain.

She married David Gould in 1964.  The dissolution of the marriage was devastating to her and one she never fully recovered from.  She remarried years later to Ken Carper, but that marriage ended upon his death.

Mom could be challenging, there is no question, and she did have strained relationships with many people in her life including her children - Krystal, Lara and Brian.  But, there were moments in there when she was funny, engaging and loving.  I appreciate that Brian made his way to Salem the Saturday before she passed. That meant the world to her, Brian.

She adored her grandchildren McKenna and Keifer who were able to be part of her life.  McKenna had the honor of providing loving (sometimes tough love) support and care to her in the last few months of her life as her caregiver.  

I am so grateful to her friends at Robert Lindsey Tower in Salem for showering her with love these past few months. She really felt it and spoke lovingly of her friends - Marge, Cat, Denny and Dougie.  I know there were countless more - forgive me for not getting everyone’s name.  I want to extend my sincerest gratitude for surrounding her with support and love after we moved to Arizona.  

I wanted to add a special THANK YOU to Cat for taking Victoria, her pomeranian.  She loved that little dog like crazy and to entrust you, Cat, to Victoria’s ongoing care, well, she must have just thought the world of you.

Mom didn’t want a service.  She asked that her ashes be spread in the waters around Reedsport.  I find this notion to be quite comforting actually - to return your ashes to the place of your birth.  The family will come together in the spring to complete this final wish.

I hope you find peace and love, Mom.