Karen Bower

Karen L. Bower, age 69, of Kalamazoo, MI went to be with the Lord on Saturday, November 7, 2015, with family at her side. Karen was born in Kalamazoo on January 30, 1946, the daughter of the late John "George" and Phyllis (Higdon) Kester. She was a loving woman who had a strong faith in the Lord. Her smile and warmth made her a joy to be around and she will be missed by all who knew her. Karen was a lifetime member of First Baptist Church of Kalamazoo where she enjoyed singing in the choir. She also performed with the Sweet Adelines Barbershop Harmony for many years. Karen received her degree from WMU in 1968. She was a hard worker who was employed by the Kalamazoo State Hospital, and as a bookkeeper for the Gilmore Keyboard Festival. She was a dedicated homemaker who worked hard to provide for her families happiness. Karen enjoyed sewing, knitting, and crochet, and was an avid reader. She also enjoyed spending time at the family cottage on Lake Louise. Though she has passed too soon, she leaves behind the legacy of a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend. On August 24, 1968, she married the love of her life Ronald Bower who survives. She is also survived by four children, Kelly (Steve Himschoot) Bower, Peter (Misty) Bower, Joseph (Richelle) Bower, Tony Bower; eight grandchildren, Abby, Megan, Ethan, Dominick, Savannah, Chloe, Mason, Erius; five, great-grandchildren, Mackenzie, Madison, Max, Macie, Zoey; a brother, John (Sandy) Kester; nieces, nephews, and friends. A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held on Saturday, November 21, 2015, at 2:00 PM, at First Baptist Church of Kalamazoo, 315 W. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo, MI 49007, with Pastor Dave Nichols and Pastor Cal Mastin officiating. A visitation will be held at the church one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be given to First Baptist Church or the American Cancer Society , c/o of the funeral home.