Thanks for the story! Nice bear...
One thing that came to mind as I was reading it that I thought I'd share - I always carry a blaze orange vest in my pack in case I have to leave an animal overnight. After cleaning the animal, and taking whatever is coming with me on the first trip out, I put the vest on the carcass. It helps me find it better when I come back, but it also keeps other animals away (mostly ravens and scavenger varmints). Apparently the orange color and human scent help deter them.
Anyway, in your case with it being late enough in the evening, it might not have made a difference, but just wanted to share!