Dawn Bower

With a life that spanned times of war and times of peace, times of plenty and times of want, Dawn Bower made a significant impact in the lives of those around her. She was caring and compassionate with a warm and inviting demeanor that drew others near with ease. Dawn enjoyed many things throughout her life, but nothing was better than sharing them with the ones she loved. Although she will be deeply missed, she leaves behind a timeless collection of memories that her loved ones will forever hold near and dear to their hearts.

The 1930s brought us some of the most trying days we have faced as a nation as the entire decade was cloaked in the hardship of the Great Depression. Jobs were scarce, the unemployment rate soared, and things only became more dire with a drought that covered our nation’s heartland for nearly two years. Despite the trials around them Ralph and June (Cook) Stacey were able to shift their focus to an exciting time in their own lives as they were eagerly awaiting the birth of their new baby as August appeared on the horizon in Southwestern Michigan in 1938. The big day finally arrived on August 25th when the baby girl they named Dawn drew her first breath. She was one of two children in her family as she was raised in the family home on Nazareth Road in Kalamazoo, Michigan, alongside her sister, Alma. Both of Dawn’s parents worked for James River in graphic packaging. In many ways, Dawn was a young girl of her generation. She attended local schools including Richland School, which is now known as Comstock. While growing up, Dawn enjoyed playing tennis.

New and exciting changes were in store for Dawn when she was at a local roller rink one day. It was there that she met a young man named Donald Bower, and he was originally from nearby Martin. They began dating and it wasn't long before the couple found themselves deeply in love. Dawn and Donald united in marriage a bit later. Together they welcomed three children into their hearts and home including Gail, Donald Junior, and Jeffrey. Sadly, Donald Junior died as an infant when he was just six weeks old. Dawn was deeply devoted to her family and she took her role as a mother to heart. Her family appreciated her fantastic skills in the kitchen when it came to both cooking and baking, and it has been said that her fudge was to die for. Dawn’s specialties also included almond pastry, strawberry rhubarb pie, and pot roast.

Throughout her life Dawn kept busy and had a variety of interests. She worked in registration at Bronson Hospital. Dawn liked going out to eat with Red Lobster being one of her favorite places. More recently, she really liked going to Biggby with Gail. She was huge animal lover who especially loved Gail’s dog. Dawn was someone who could handle whatever came her way, but she always preferred days that went smoothly and were stress free. When it came to music, she liked country.

Kindhearted, gracious, and generous, Dawn Bower was a blessing in the lives of all who crossed her path. She worked hard, but she also took the time to enjoy life along the way. When it came to others, Dawn put their needs and desires ahead of her own. She was always respectful, compassionate, and caring, and at times she had a funny sense of humor. Dawn will be deeply missed and never forgotten.

Dawn Bower died on May 19, 2018.