So sorry for your loss. He was a great man.

I learned about Rick's passing today, which would have been his 73rd birthday. I have many fond memories of Rick, which mainly revolved around Randall knives. I feel blessed that Rick scrimshawed my parents' 50th wedding anniversary knife, which was a Randall Model 5-6" with stag handle. See the photo. It was Rick's 1,148th scrimshaw of a Randall knife. It was presented to my parents almost a dozen years ago, and although my father passed away last November, my mother still treasures the knife. The world is a lesser place without Rick, and I am deeply saddened by his loss, not only for his family, but the Randall knife community. The two Rick Bowles Specials in my collection shall remain in my collection.

Blessings and peace to Rick’s family. I wish there had been more time for talking, laughing, music and fishing.

I knew Rick for many years, first as a scrimshaw artist then as a valued friend assisting me to sell a large collection of Randall knives. It was a pleasure to know him, and we would regularly just shoot the breeze about anything and especially politics. We happened to have many common interests. Rick's passing was almost as great a loss to me as my Father's death. I will miss him for the the rest of my life.

Here to pay my respects to Rick, to his many talents and artistry, and to the incalculable contribution he made to the history and beauty of Randall Made knives. To be sure, Rick was a world-class artist with a world-class artist's temprement, sometimes a bit of a curmudgeon, but always a man of honor, integrity and fierce and unshakeable patriotism. You might not agree with Rick, but if he said something, you knew he meant it, and if he stated it as fact, you knew it was true. Rick was never reluctant to let you know where he stood or what he thought. If you disagreed with him a spirited but always respectful debate would follow. Rick was very much a Renaissance man. In addition to his art, he was an accomplished musician and played guitar in a band for many years. He was an adamant supporter of our military and the men and women in uniform who serve our country. Rick loved his wife Kim very deeply and always spoke of her lovingly, with respect and admiration. His was very proud of Garrick and Quincy, and the fact that they both chose to serve their country in the Navy. Rick was my friend for for more than 30 years. I valued his friendship, enjoyed our frequent telephone conversations, and regret that time and distance prevented us from spending more time face to face. I am saddened by his loss, and will miss him.

Our deepest sympathy for your family loss. Rick may you always enjoy following seas and tight lines as you continue your voyages in peace.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.