"Alice loved the arts and was a very talented artist herself. She also was a very beautiful woman. She and Richard were good friends back when I was actively involved in the Festival of Trees. One year, the youth group that I and my sister-in-law, Jenny, were co-leaders of at Trinity United Methodist Church, entered a tree in the event. We made crosses and stars using twigs and such to decorate the tree. We were pretty impressed with end result, and Alice had so many nice things to say. I think it even won an award for best religious entry or something along those lines. The Gate City also had entries on a few occasions that I helped with. I too have memories of seeing Alice and Richard driving around town in the summertime with the top down on their car. They looked like they were always enjoying life to the fullest. Richard and family, you are in my prayers. I know my life is better because I had the opportunity to know such a wonderful person."
In loving memory of
Alice Bowers
November 2, 2009
Alice Rohm Bowers passed away at the age of 87 on Monday, November 2, 2009.
A resident of Keokuk since 1946, Alice was born in Chicago, the daughter of Hazel K. and William Rohm. She grew up in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, and attended the University of Iowa where she met her husband and life-long love, Richard Bowers. They were married on January 9, 1943 and spent 67 wonderful years together.
Alice was a talented and gracious woman who opened her arms to many people her entire life. She was a committed volunteer who was active in community affairs, the arts and St. John's Episcopal Church. She was passionate about the arts: an award-winning painter, President of the Keokuk Art Center, a member of Iowa Arts Council, on the Friends of SUI Museum board, and juried member of both the Arizona and Iowa watercolor societies.
In addition to leadership in many activities in her church, her community activities included the Graham Hospital Guild, Fine Arts Council, PTA, Art in the Park and Mothers Study Club. She was the founder of the first Festival of Trees. She was the first recipient of the Spirit of Keokuk award. Last but certainly not least, she was a member of the President's Club of the State University of Iowa and a lifelong Hawkeyes fan.
She was devoted to her family. She is survived by her husband, and her three children, Rick Bowers, Catherine Rocca, and Sarah Bowers, and her son-in-law, Bart Rocca. She was blessed with ten grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren and twelve nieces and nephews and their families.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Jean Rohm and his wife, Beverly, a daughter-in-law, Margaret Freeman Bowers, her parents-in-law, Alice and Russell Bowers, a brother-in-law, James Bowers and a nephew, Donald Bowers.
She is also survived by two very special friends: Sally Tedrow and Wanda Cannon and her family. Space does not permit the listing of the other countless friends and souls who were touched by her generous and loving spirit.
Alice Bowers brightened the worlds of all who knew her. She was compassionate and she was passionate. She led an exceptionally full and active life. With characteristic humor in her last days, she was fond of reminding her family: "It is better to wear out than rust out."
Tributes
"Dear Sarah, Cathy, and Rick, I first met your Mother and Cathy at Miss Agney's dance class where my Mother played the piano (no CD's or orchestra) for the dance lessons. We were little girls then, and she was always such an energizing lady no matter where or how you met. Being a total left brainer, I never connected artistically with her, but I admired her artistry, color, and tasteful flair. I was strongly attracted to her sense of purpose for others through AFS and all our high school endeavors. I admired her gracious hospitality and humor. At age 60, I am adopting her motto of avoiding rust. My Mother is still living, but I have lost my Father. It is easy to put them to rest when they have suffered, but it is a very sad moment as well. God's peace to you. Dianne Hilmer Foglesong What a gracious and grand lady. Whether serving a sit down dinner for 30 or snacks for a houseful of kids she was always in her element. The lives she touched over the years are countless...the hearts she warmed endless. She will be missed. May you find comfort and peace in the many memories you share. Mark Foglesong "
"Mr. Bowers, Cathy, Rick, Sarah and families... Condolences to you on the loss of your beautiful mother. She was one of the finest people I've known. Her interest in people when she spoke with them was exemplary. It was a delight to be with her always. I love her story of the trees around your house: planting one for each of you. Growing up, we were always hearing of great things she did for Keokuk. Loved hearing that the first Festival of Trees was her idea; not a surprise. You were always a great family and I know you all carry her in your hearts. Much love, Joy "
"We had the good fortune of being your next door neighbors on Seymour beginning way back in the 50s. Our family (Ruth, Rollie, Mike, Bob, Martha Lynn, and Dan) enjoyed yours (Alice, Rich, Rick, Cathy, and Sarah.) Our younger sister Liz didn't get to know you as well, perhaps because she was still quite young when you moved to Mahaska Road. Artistically talented, however, she remembered Alice for her work at the Keokuk Art Center. Two years ago, when Alice and I chanced to meet in HyVee, and exchanged small talk about "How are you?" she dropped a bombshell, saying "Not so good. I may not have much longer." It stunned me, because it certainly wasn't what I expected to hear. I am sorry that I was out of town during the memorial service; I understand that it was a nice tribute to a great lady. When Dad and Mom died, a former pastor of our church helped us through the tough times with this advice, which I pass on to you as I found it helpful: "Don't despair! For them, the suffering and pain is over; they go to a far better place and will see you again someday." "Think of the happy times you shared together, their joy and laughter, their kind and helpful and generous nature." "Celebrate their lives!" "Be grateful you were a part of them." I am grateful to have known Alice. She enriched all of our lives."
"Alice was a lovely, gracious lady. We were enriched by knowing her. We know she will be greatly missed by her family, as well as her community. Our sincere sympathy."
"Our deepest sympathy to the family of such a classy lady. Mrs B was such an inspiration to me growing up in the church at St. Johns. Her zest for life has helped so many, especially my Aunt Nad and Aunt Janet. We will miss her but know she is one of the brightest stars in the universe."
"Mrs. B was a life-long friend of my family's. I remember her love of laughter and fun. She cared for our mother, Enid Davis, during her days at Graham Hospital through prayer and attention, and I will always appreciate Mrs. B's caring and respect. She had a joie de vivre that is hard to beat. She was a good friend, a solid companion and a loving mother. She always had a good word for everyone. I celebrate her life and knowing her. "