Vale – Grahame Bowen

Vale Grahame Bowen

Born 7 September 1946 – passed away 29 March 2016.

Former St. George and Cronulla forward, Grahame Bowen, passed away in his sleep on Monday night, aged 69.

A Cronulla junior, Grahame began his grade career with the Dragons and played 75 top grade games with the club in six seasons from 1967. He was a member of Jack Gibson’s St. George side who were beaten by Souths in the thrilling 1971 grand final.

In 1973, Grahame moved to Cronulla, where he played 29 matches in two seasons. Despite injured ribs, he had a strong game in the 1973 grand final against Manly. The Sharks were narrowly beaten 10-7, in this torrid grand final and one of the major reasons for their excellent effort, was Grahame Bowen.

The forward battles were fierce, but the two Cronulla props, Cliff Watson and Grahame, were always close to the action. Grahame and Cliff remained close friends until his passing and the duo, along with other friends, were often seen at the Cronulla Pie Shop. Grahame lived at Cronulla and Cliff, nearby.

In his 104 game first grade career, Grahame scored 18 tries. During his playing days, Grahame was a policeman and later became a detective. He then moved into the Club Industry and was a very popular secretary/manager at the Sutherland United Services (SUS) Club for many years.

Grahame is survived by his son, Scott, who is a three Test Wallaby and daughter, Nicole. Brother Roger, sisters Lyn and Sue, along with his 95 year old mother, Patricia.

Funeral details: 
Friday 8 April 2016 at10.30am
St Aloyuis Parish Church
18 Giddings Avenue, Cronulla