"Vik was one of my true friends and that is hard to come by this day and age. TRUE FRIEND! I could tell u anything and u knew what to say to me and it was always the truth not just what I wanted to hear. When I was separated u were the one who stood by me when I had my doughts when we got back tog. Thanks for that. WE worked great tog. at car go in Bancroft.(I gotta have at least 5 days or i'll go stir crazy) u would say to me. What a great taste tester for me when I would make pot. salad. Long talks and of course lottery tickets I would cratch off on those sunday mornings just hanging out visiting with ya. Love those times. I guess our plan never worked (throw the keys and sit back and read the paper, let me know when ur done). U and Mike always knew i had ur back and u had mine. I just want to have one more good laugh with you, but I know one more will never be enough for us. So i guess I will have to wait until we meet again. Hey Vik, say HI to my mom and tell her I miss her and love her to... You'll always be in my heart. Love me. u know who I am."
In loving memory of
Vicky L. Bowman-Hall
November 15, 2010
Vicky's family has been overwhelmed by the kindness of the local communities and their many friends and neighbors. They thank everyone who has so generously helped to provide for their needs during this tragic time. Those who wish to express their sympathy or make a gesture of support are encouraged to consider gas or grocery gift cards or by donating to the Vicky Bowman-Hall Memorial Fund established at Iowa State Bank, 5 East Call Street, Algona, Iowa 50511.
Vicky Lynn Bowman Hall was born November 10, 1963, in Algona daughter of Virgil William and Irene (Laabs) Wolf. She grew up in Bancroft graduating from St. John's Catholic High School in 1982. She then attended Iowa Lakes Community College where she met Brian Bowman.
Vicky was married to Brian in 1983 and they lived in Fort Dodge. She was a cashier at Kwik Shop for many years. She was the neighborhood "mom" to everyone that lived in the neighborhood. She would cook for all the neighbors on a small grill outside on the front steps in the summer.
On July 27, 1999 she was married to Mike Hall in Jefferson, Iowa. They lived on an acreage north of Burt. Vicky worked at Cargo Express Convenience Store in Bancroft for many years until it burnt down. She then worked at the K&H Convenience Stores in Burt and Algona, and for the past several years she was assistant manager of Cross Roads Convenience Store in Algona.
Her major life interest was focused around her family. She would always cook large meals for get-togethers. She loved taking the kids to the pool and Smith Lake in the summer. It was important to her that everyone spent as much time together as possible when she wasn't working.
Her mothering style was very unique and unconventional. Her relationships with her children varied; but all felt a great closeness to her. She kept the family together through many struggles. She always made sure her children were taken care of, no matter the cost. She was an amazing mother and the 'rock' of the family who will be severely missed. She was one to whom everyone looked to for advice; and life will not be the same without her. Many people's lives were touched by Vicky and she was loved many.
Vicky L. Bowman Hall tragically died Monday, November 15, 2010, at Kossuth Regional Health Center, Algona, at the age of 47.
She is survived by her husband, Mike Hall of Burt; her eleven loving children and 7 grandchildren: Jessica Bowman (boyfriend Ed Martin) of Palmer and children, Andre'a and Alexander Lamphier and Bailey Martin; John Bowman of Fort Dodge and children Emma Griffin and Gavin Bowman; Julia Krug and husband Shawn of Titonka and children Olivia and Jayson Krug; Jillian Bowman, Jalisa Bowman, James Bowman, Jolene Bowman, Michael Jolynn "Micky" Hall, Jacob Hall, Jaden Hall, and Jasmine Hall, all of Burt; and two step-children, Dustin Williams of Des Moines, and John Lee Hall and his wife Sharla of Des Moines and children Justin Barrington Hall and Dustin Barrington Hall. She is also survived by her mother, Irene Wolf of Algona; seven brothers and sisters, Leroy (Linda) Wolf of Forest City, Martha "Sis" Shanon of Clear Lake, Joseph (Shirley) Wolf of Ohio, Vincent "Bud" (Connie) Wolf of Mineral, VA, Helene "Mickey" Wolf of Algona, Donald (Kristy) Wolf of Bancroft; and Mary (Earl) Thompson of Algona; and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and special friends.
She was preceded in death by her father.
Tributes
"I didn't know Vicky and yet, this has touched my heart in a way I cannot describe. A little piece of something has been taken form all of us. My entire being aches for all of you. May God give you the strength to carry on and some day find peace again. May the empty spot in your hearts be filled with warmth of loving memories and knowing that God has his arms wrapped tight around your precious Vicky giving her comfort and peace. From the bottom of my heart, I am so very sorry. God Bless You."
"So sorry to here about your Mother, we will miss her. Some day soon you will be able to see her again. Revaluation 21:3,4 God will wipe every tear from our eyes and death will be no more... This is to all the family especially to Julia and Jillian. May Jehovah Be with you at this sad time in your life. may his strength through the congregation of Jehovah's Wittiness support you at this time. my sincere sympathy , Randy and Jacqui Bauer From Algona congregation "
"I have read all the condolences posted before me, and it brings me to tears. I was just going to post a little note about how deeply sorry I was, and the little way that Vicky touched my life. I enjoyed Vicky because on the occaision she came in the office she was without fail smiling and kind, no matter what, and I enjoyed visiting with her. When I made the connection it was her daughter Jillian, I believe, who at the time worked at K-Mart I told Vicky how I thought her daughter was such a sweetheart and such a hard worker. If I had my boys with me, Jillian asked me about them and shared how she had lots of brothers and sisters and loved kids. I have a friend whose even shared pictures of her grandkids with Jillian. There's no doubt Vicky was a hard-working, dedicated, loving mother and passed on those qualities in her children. And in that way she will live on in your hearts and in the way you live your lives. I am very close to my mom, and I can only imagine your grief. My heart aches for you all, and I am so very sorry for your loss, and I will continue to keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Angela Johnson "
"Our hearfelt sympathy goes out to all of Vicky's family. You and your family will be in our thougts and prayers in the month to follow. May God grant each of you His peace and love. Each of you have such special memories of this lovey lady--cherish them as only you can! "
"My thoughts go out to your family right now at this very difficult time. I taught Jillian and Jalisa at NK and remember how talented both of you were. I am sure your mom played a big part in developing those talents within you. Take care of yourselves...thinking of you. Jill Schany"
"To Vickys Family, Words could never express the feelings that we have for your family during this most tragic time. Please know that you are in many thoughts and prayers of those you see, and even those you don't know or see. May you find strength to make it through this. Vicky would want you to all pull together as a family. I remember watching you kids grow up on 4th Ave So in Fort Dodge. Jillian, your Mom introduced you to me as "Curly Sue", because of your long beautiful curly hair! I remember you all loading into that light blue station wagon and riding around. Your Mom would always stop and chat with me as I went about my appointed rounds. I saw her about a year ago in the Kum & Go here in Ft Dodge. She hadn't changed a bit! It was so good to see her, as I wondered what ever happened to all of you! She smiled and said that she was remarried, and had more babies! She told me me that Curly Sue had gone into Criminal Justice, and that Jessie and Julia were in the nursing field. She is so proud of all of you, and of your accomplishments!! I walked away thinking how wonderful to see her so happy!! Your Mom is in heaven and watching over all of you! When you see a ray of sunshine, know that she is smiling for you! Her memory will be carried forward through each one of you as you grow. Keep her traditions alive, and let her grandbabies know her as you tell them about your good memories! May God Bless and keep you all safe in his care."
"So sorry to hear of your loss. May God watch over all of you and heal your broken hearts with wonderful memories she left behind."
"I am so sorry for your loss. I remember Vicky from St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Fort Dodge, where I taught Jessica in preschool Sunday school. I just remember what a truly loving family this is, and I'm so sad for what you're going through. I do pray the good memories will bring you comfort, and you will feel your mother's presence in very real ways."
"I only knew Vicky a short while, when I used to date her son John, last year. I was a new mom myself, with a colicky newborn, and when I would become stressed out and overwhelmed, John would always suggest I talk to his mom, Vicky, who was a mother to 11. Although I never got the chance to get to know her very well, I always admired her for how devoted to her family she was, and the few times I did talk to her, she was always kind to me. I wish I would have gotten to know her better, because if anyone could inspire me to be a stronger, more patient mother it would have been her. My heart goes out to her family and friends and to everyone who knew her. You are all in my prayers and I am deeply sorry for your loss."
"Our hearts are filled with sadness for your family. Vicky was a hard working Mother and she loved all of you very much. God had plans for her in heaven but remember she will always be in your hearts. Close your eyes, think of her & pray, she will be there for you. She has touched many people and will surley be missed. "
"I am so sorry to hear of the death of your wife and mom Vicky. I pray for all of her family who has been affected by this terrible loss. May God hold you in His arms during this difficult time. May Vicky rest in peace and may you find comfort in the wonderful memories that will keep her alive in your hearts forever, Cathy Kelly"
"May God be with you durning this very difficult time. We will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers"
"To: The family of Vicky, May God put his arms around each and everyone of you, at this difficult time. Vicky, was a hard worker. She always had something to say when you would meet her on the street...She will be deeply missed!!! God Bless You at this difficult time. My Deepest Sympathy, Bancroft Resident"
"Dear Vicky's Family, No one can turn back the hands of time but if I could just for a moment I would give your beloved Mom back to you for one final kiss or hug. She will be missed. I will remember you in my prayers always"
"To Vicky's family, May all the wonderful memories you have of her sustain you during this very difficult time. I have many fun memories of Vicky from high school and when we cheered together. She was always so bubbly, and happy. She definitely loved life and was always smiling. Vicky obviously touched so many people in a positive way. May that bring you all comfort knowing she was loved by so many. "Heavenly Father, wrap your loving arms around this family and help them heal. Amen" Mike, Julie & Jack Becker"
"Mom, I know you are there. I miss you so much. I love you. My kids miss you, too. I have your pop corn you ordered and the stuff I was going to bring to Thanksgiving, just sitting on the counter-still waiting to be put away. I promise to keep the holiday traditions going with us always getting together, and making all the food you always made. Even if it's not "as good as moms/grandmas". No matter the dish, yours always was the best. You won't get to see us kids get married. But I know you will be there, telling us that the one we love never has to be perfect-they just have to be "perfect for us". You were never a "soft" mom when it came to me. We fought, argued, and butt-heads more than most-but I always felt comforted by you telling me that I was smart enough to figure it out. I won't let anyone tell me different. You never ignored me-a fact that made me who I am as a mom, friend, or passer-by. People who have met me, and know you have always told me that I was like you-and though I denied it fully...I am so proud to be your daughter. I love you. I will see you some time...and you can make me feel like a kid again. When all was well with the world. We can argue, fight, and then go get some coffee and you can talk to me about life and how much you mean to me."
"Words just aren't enough ~ This is truly trajic. We all wish we were able to be there to hug you all ~ to do what we can to comfort you, listen to your memories, offer our heartfelt love and shared grief.. Your mother made a truly beautiful impression on me.. Every time we got together, I saw her devotion, her dedication to you all & know she would be overwhelmed and warmed to see how very much you each adored her. remember that & cherish your family here now...that is what it's all about ~ love. We are all praying for you and we personally hold onto the hope to see her again in paradise... It brings a smile to my face to imagine a much desired reunion of her with her children, family & friends.. In the meanwhile ~ be good to those you hold dear, it will honour her ~ you are her legacy.."
"To the Family of Vicki, I know you do not know me, but I went to St. John High School. I was a freshman when Vicki was a senior and we were on the track team together. She and my older sister were cheerleaders together. I remember Vicki as always ready to have fun. She was quick to laugh and had a good sense of humor. I am so sorry to hear that such a joyful person died in such a tragic way. Please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers. All loss is hard to accept, but one this senseless even more so. May the memories you have keep Vicki's spririt alive in your hearts. And may God's grace help you to heal. With deepest sympathy...."
"She was a great person to see in the store and was always happy. My heart goes out to the family and may God bless you forever. I know she will be watching over all of you forever. She was a very hard-working lady and will be truly missed. You all have my condolences and I will think of all of you everyday. "
"Our Deepest Sympathy are with you and your family at this most difficult time, You are in our Thoughts and Prayers "
"I did not know Vicky, but I worked with her daughter, Julia. I heard a lot of wonderful things about her to know well enough that she was an amazing person. Julia talked so highly of her mother. My deepest sympathy is with all of you and I am praying for all of you that the good Lord will guide you through this. She is up in God's hands in a very safe place now and is watching over all of you. You will see her again some day. Please remember the strength of prayer."
"To Vicky's family: I will always have great memories of Vicky! I cheered with her in high school & sat by her in band. I don't ever remember her without that great smile! My deepest sympathy goes to all of you at this tragic time. I hope that you can find some comfort in knowing that Vicky affected so many people in such a great way. My thoughts & prayers are with you."
"Even though it has been over 28 years since i last seen Vicky. She was always alot of fun and a good friend. I will miss her alot. Her family will be in our prayers. May she rest in piece."
"Our business uses Crossroads on a regular basis. So very sad to hear the news about Vicky. Did not know her on a personal basis, but was impressed on how kind and professional she was. Always remember her beautiful smile, she was very special. May God comfort your family during this time of sorrow."
"Our deepest Sympathy is with you and your family. We have known her since high school and grade school a great cheerleader and a true and kind person Our Prayers are with you. Bancroft Family"
"I will miss seeing Vicky at the station.. I grew up with her brothers and sisters. Living next door to them for a good many of years in bancroft. She was a good friend of my sisters while growing up. May God be with you now Vicky and help her family cope with this tragic thing that happened."
"My deepest sympathy to Vicky's family. We were classmates and co-workers for several years at the nursing home in Bancroft and I have lots of memories that I will cherish. I can still see her in her cheerleading uniform or flipping her hair back out of her eyes. She always had a smile and I'm sure she's smiling down on all of you. She's your guardian angel!!!"
"How she will be missed, by her family, her friends, even the strangers passing through who just stopped by once in awhile. She was loved by many and she and I had many good times. I will pray for each of you children. Hang on to your happy memories."
"A wonderful classmate, friend and backyard neighbor. we spent a lot of time together when we were younger. Never an unkind word towards anyone. I will miss "Wolfskie" until we meet again in heaven. This is undoubtedly where she is now. I pray for all left behind. "
"Very sad what happened to Vicky. I did not know her but I am shocked."
"I am a daily customer of Crossroads - morning and late afternoon. There was never a time that I came in that there was not a smile and hello from behind the counter. Vicki was a hard worker and family was always the first priority in her life. We shared stories about our kids, laughed about our kids and her love for all of you was always evident. May you find some comfort that another angel has entered heaven and is watching over all of you. So many thoughts and prayers go out to all of Vicky's family. "
"To Vicky's family. Please know you are all in my thoughts and prayers at this time. She will be missed by many. Many the times I was in Cargo, she always had a smile on her face and I enjoyed hearing about her family. I always felt better about my day if I was greeted by her at crossroads."
"My deepest sympathy to all of you during this very difficult time. Vicky truly had a heart of gold and would do anything for anyone! My thoughts and prayers are with all of you, God has a wonderful angel in His midst."
"Our thought's & prayer's are with you & your family."
"Mike & Family, I just want you to know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all. We are heart broken at your loss. May God be with you and Bless you all!"
"We are sorry to hear of this loss to the north Iowa community. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. We did not know yoru wife/mother but we want to send our prayers your way. We are from Lakota and come to Algona often. God be with you. Connie and Dennis"
"Mike and Kids i was so sad to here about Vicky She was a Friend and a good Mom i will miss her bright smiles and i know she will be looking down on all of and imbraceing you all you were her live. Vicky will be greatly missed. Anne "
"Our deepest condolences goes out to the Vicky's family during this most difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you!! I didn't know her nor the family but it fills my heart full of sadness.God Bless You All!! Sorry for your loss. "
"So tragic, my thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends. When I would come to Algona for shopping or doctor's appointment, I would stop at CrossRoads. She was always so nice and talked with me. I know she thought a lot of her family. There is now an angel in the sky looking over Algona. "
"My thoughts are with all of you at this time of great sorrow. Vicky and I were classmates and cheerleaders together in Bancroft. At our last class reunion Vicky was still the same, full of life and happiness and always smiling. My prayers are with you all. "
"I got to know Vicky when she worked at the Bancroft C store and saw her often at the cross roads store. She was always fun to visit with and we enjoyed giving each other a hard time. I will miss seeing her smile and conversations and will be greatly missed by everyone!!! May God be with you and help you through this difficult time."
"Mike and Kids, I am so very saddened by Vicky's death. I recently seen her at Crossroads and had a good visit with her while I was there. When she worked with me at Car-go she was a very good employee.She was always willing to come in when I needed her. She always was smiling and so friendly to all that met her.I know that her family was her 1st priority in life and that she loved you all very much. Vicky will be so very missed by all that knew her. Mike and family my heart goes out to all of you. Please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers. "
"Our deepest sympathy with your family during this most difficult time. You are in our thoughts and prayers. "
"My deepest condolences to the family of Vicky. I know your hearts are heavy with her loss, but know that she is looking down on all of you with love and joy because she is in God's hands now. She is safe, no longer subjected to the bad things of our world. And she loves each and every one of you. You are all so special to have had her touch your lives. God Bless all of you. "
"My deepest sympathy to your family, Vicky was one of the first people in iowa i meet, she was always friendly and made me feel welcolm here. She will be greatly missed by all who have had the pleasure of meeting her."
"Thoughts from many people are with you right now.Let these thoughts help you get thru this time of sorrow. Our thoughts and prayers are with you."
"Thoughts from many people are with you right now.Let these thoughts help you get thru this time of sorrow. Our thoughts and prayers are with you."
"Thoughts from many people are with you right now.Let these thoughts help you get thru this time of sorrow. Our thoughts and prayers are with you."
"Thoughts from many people are with you right now.Let these thoughts help you get thru this time of sorrow. Our thoughts and prayers are with you."
"We send our deepest condolences to your family-- our thoughts and prayers will continue for all of you in this very trying time. God will get you through this... we will miss Vicky and how sweet she was when we would go get our favorite fountain pops everyday. She was such a sweet, kind person and will be greatly missed. God bless all of you,"
"11/17/'10 To the Families of Vicky Bowman-Hall- My heart is heavy and saddened for all of you during this sad time of loss. Even though I didn't know Vicky personally I feel a sense of loss for you all. I use to live in Algona, Iowa when I was very young. I moved to Minnesota with my family in 1970. I still have many relatives in the Algona and Burt areas as well as Whittemore and Fort Dodge. When I saw this on Facebook and then heard it on the news it really hit home. Even though your loved one has gone to her eternal reward way to early-please be assured that she will not be suffering or harmed anymore by anyone. This was a senseless act on behalf of a young man who obviously was very troubled. He will have alot of time to think about what he did. I just hope in Vicki's and Sheilas Untimely passing that both families will pull together and it sounds like they will. I will keep all of you in my prayers in the weeks and months ahead. Pray for healing and patience and May God see all of you through this-stay strong and Positive- things will never be better in a world thats constantly changing and not everyone is a bad person-Just some of them are lost souls trying to reach out for help. I wish you all peace and comfort and remember there is Joy in The morning but in heaven there is no pain or sorrow-only beautiful skies and wonderful angels. Your loved one Vicki is in heaven with Jesus now and smiling always. May God Hold Her and Sheila in the palm of his hands forever. May His perpetual light shine upon Vicki and Sheila also. With Sincerest Prayers and Sympathy and Peace Always and Gods Blessings Upon You ALL-Mark J. VonBank-Park Rapids, Minnesota-(formerly of Algona, Iowa)."
"Please know our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this tragic time. Exceptional Opportunities is gathering a care package which we hope to deliver next week Wednesday. With Deepest Sympathy. Jean"