Evelyn Bowman

Through the life of Evelyn Bowman we are reminded that there is little value found in the things of this world, but that is when we set our sights on loving those around us that we find true happiness. She was devoted to her family, and although being a mother seemed to be a role that was tailor made just for Evelyn it was her role as a grandmother she treasured most. Her grace, compassion, and selfless heart will be deeply missed while her memory remains forever cherished.

The dark days of the 1930s were some of the most difficult days we have seen as a nation as the entire decade was cloaked in the hardship of the Great Depression. The American spirit remained, however, as cities, communities, and families came together to weather the storm in whatever way they could. Despite the trying times around them a young couple, Donald and Laverne (Allen) Rantz, was pleased to announce the birth of their daughter, Evelyn, on March 25, 1933. She was the second of six children born and raised in Martin, Michigan, and was joined in her family by her older brother, Harold, and her younger siblings, Janet, Donna, Bill, and Dave. Evelyn’s parents were farmers, which meant that life was anything but easy during her youngest years as a debilitating drought made the agricultural industry one of the industries that was hit the hardest during these harsh economic times.

In many ways Evelyn experienced an upbringing that was reflective of the times. She attended Martin schools through the eighth grade and then went on to Wayland High School. When the school day came to an end, Evelyn’s day was far from over as she came home to work on the farm as was common during those days.

After graduating from high school in 1951, Evelyn lived with her aunt and uncle for a time to help care for their children. As a young woman she also took secretarial classes that later landed her a job as a secretary at Fuller Transmission in Kalamazoo. During this time Evelyn shared an apartment with some cousins and her sister.

Life was forever changed for Evelyn when she met the man who would forever change the course of her life. His name was Austin Bowman, and they met at the Fireman’s Ball at the Dixie Dance Pavilion in December of 1953. Although sparks initially flew between them, their blossoming romance was soon thrown a curve ball when Austin was drafted into the Army. They continued to correspond through letter, which allowed their love to flourish. With a desire to spend the rest of their lives together Evelyn and Austin were married on February 12, 1955, at the Bowne Center United Methodist Church.

The newlyweds spent the following year at Fort Jackson in South Carolina where Austin was stationed. Once he was discharged they returned to Michigan where he worked alongside his father on the farm. Evelyn was in for the scare of a lifetime when a tornado went through and shook the house. Understandably, she was scared of storms from that point forward. After running a dairy farm for a local farmer, Austin rented a farm in Martin beginning in 1960, which he then purchased in 1963. Evelyn did her part to help as she worked in the barns.

Together Evelyn and Austin were blessed with five children: Carrie, Richard, Judy, Laurie, and Jim. The Bowmans never really had any pets to speak of, just their dairy cows, some barn cats, and a few dogs. Evelyn was a fantastic baker, although her cooking skills weren’t the greatest since she always insisted on cooking everything on high! Throughout her life she was completely devoted to her family, and when grandchildren came along Evelyn couldn’t have been happier. As the years went by she was always in the know and aware of every detail about her children’s lives as well as the lives of her grandchildren.

Throughout her life Evelyn remained as active as she could. Once her children were grown she worked as a secretary at her church, Martin United Methodist Church, where she had been a faithful member since 1960. Evelyn always enjoyed gardening and reading. For a time she was president of Tops chapter 610, and she was also a Worthy Matron of the Order of the Eastern Star during the early seventies. With a special love for children, Evelyn made herself available to babysit for anyone whether family, friends, or someone else in need of a dependable babysitter. At home she enjoyed relaxing activities like birdwatching, writing letters and cards to loved ones, and crocheting. As her friends and family can attest, Evelyn loved to talk and could do so for hours as she regularly did just that with her family on a daily basis.

The things to love about Evelyn Bowman were numerous. She was bubbly and social with the gift of gab all rolled into one. Known for her lead foot, Evelyn received more than a few tickets through the years, and since she was able to find even the most minute of slippery spots she fell all the time resulting in some broken bones as time went on. A dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, there was nothing that Evelyn wouldn’t do for her family, and her love for them was unmatched. She will be dearly missed and warmly remembered.

Evelyn Bowman of Shelbyville died on May 5, 2013. Evelyn’s family includes her children: Carrie (Marty) Zagummny, Richard (Denise) Bowman, Judy Meyers, Laurie (Al) Madison, Jim (Deborah) Bowman; brothers and sisters; 19 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Evelyn was preceded in death by her husband, Austin; brother, David; sister, Donna; and grandson, Ben. Visit with her family and friends and view her life story film on Thursday, May 9 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the Life Story Funeral Home, Plainwell; 120 Woodhams St. (685-5881). A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, May 10 at 11:00 a.m. at the Martin United Methodist Church; 969 East Allegan Street, Martin, MI. Please visit Evelyn’s memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you can archive a memory or photo and sign her memory book online before coming to funeral home. Memorial contributions can be made to The Martin United Methodist Church or Heartland Hospice.