Friday, September 08, 2006
Dore River Jack's Dog Team
Jack Maclane used to stop in to visit Elmer & Madge when they were a young couple.
Here they pose with his sled & dog team.
the wedding dress
This Eatons letter is obviously a response to a query from Madge Bowes' mother, Eliza (Ocie) Cockrum, in the summer of 1937 before Elmer & Madge's October wedding. The prices for fabric are fascinating. The notes about adding pounds and lining lingerie are priceless!
Note: If you click on the scanned letter pages, they will enlarge. If you hold the cursor over the enlarged page, you should be able to see icons in the top right and bottom left corner. Click on the bottom icon with the arrows and the page should get even bigger -- good for both viewing and printing.
And here's the real dress, which Ocie Cockrum made herself.
(Sorry about the lack of detail in the scan -- I'll fix it as soon as I can locate an original to copy.)
Note: If you click on the scanned letter pages, they will enlarge. If you hold the cursor over the enlarged page, you should be able to see icons in the top right and bottom left corner. Click on the bottom icon with the arrows and the page should get even bigger -- good for both viewing and printing.
And here's the real dress, which Ocie Cockrum made herself.
(Sorry about the lack of detail in the scan -- I'll fix it as soon as I can locate an original to copy.)
Thursday, September 07, 2006
driving to the homestead
Colleen here: I have resigned from my job at Briercrest and moved to Spiritwood to live at "the 'Vent" with Mom & Dad. Last week I sorted the last drawers in Grandma and Grandpa's now-empty dresser, discovering treasures in the process. There were many pieces of jewelery, including old wedding rings and a bracelet everyone thought had been stolen.
Here is one of my favorite finds (the scanner was too small for the entire plate):
There are 2 plates.
A note found with the plates reads: "1937 plates on truck Elmer and Madge drove from their wedding to their homestead in."
Here's the happy couple at that homestead:
Here is one of my favorite finds (the scanner was too small for the entire plate):
There are 2 plates.
A note found with the plates reads: "1937 plates on truck Elmer and Madge drove from their wedding to their homestead in."
Here's the happy couple at that homestead:
Saturday, July 29, 2006
Travel Bugs
Hi everyone,
Jeff Here in Utah
Today feels like the best day I've ever had!
We woke up at 5:45 and headed out to go canyoneering
that is hiking and rappelling through a canyon in Zion National Park.
Only 12 people a day are allowed access to this precious bit of real estate
and how amazing it is.
Photos and more words on my blog and website.
Follow the link on the right.
I'm thinking of the storage room full of Grandpa's photographs
as I travel and explore through some of the national Parks here in the U.S
as I've been taking around 130 pictures and enough video to fill a DVD per day
Jeff Here in Utah
Today feels like the best day I've ever had!
We woke up at 5:45 and headed out to go canyoneering
that is hiking and rappelling through a canyon in Zion National Park.
Only 12 people a day are allowed access to this precious bit of real estate
and how amazing it is.
Photos and more words on my blog and website.
Follow the link on the right.
I'm thinking of the storage room full of Grandpa's photographs
as I travel and explore through some of the national Parks here in the U.S
as I've been taking around 130 pictures and enough video to fill a DVD per day
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
Friday, June 30, 2006
This email is from Lorrie Bowes' father, Harold Quirk, in Australia.
From: Harold Quirk
Cc: Dave/Marilynn Ashby
Sent: Monday, 29 May 2006, 12:34 PM
Well Old Timer, you've beat me to iT& when the Lord sends for me I hope he gives me the same sort of one way Ticket, & please give my love to my Departed. I was going to apologise for not Emailing sooner for not having attended your 90th that Bo & Lorraine assured us was a lovely Party. Anyway we'll make up for it, when I catch up to you & we Tee Up in a BALL.
Au Revoir my very dear Friend, from your Friend Down Under, [Harold]
Marilyn & Dave & the Bow as Clan, to say how sorry I am is putting it so lightly & certainly does in no way convey my sense of loss & almost dismay when Lorrain & Bob brought the news to me but then reality took over & what a way to go & so I became happy for him.
I feel for you his Family & particularly Madge your Mum as she has lost her Mate, & oh how I know how lost & lonely she will be but then she has you all to comfort her & this will be a great solace, but of course not complete. [Oh how I know.] & a large part of one looks forward to the day that God sends for us & we can rejoin fact it seems as it would be like a tree in a forest that is being cleared, "The view is good from up hear but oh so lonely."
So to you the Bow Clan, I who have mourned on so many occasions understand and sympathise & pray God to help in your sorrow as I know you ask. Amen.
Harold Quirk
From: Harold Quirk
Cc: Dave/Marilynn Ashby
Sent: Monday, 29 May 2006, 12:34 PM
Well Old Timer, you've beat me to iT& when the Lord sends for me I hope he gives me the same sort of one way Ticket, & please give my love to my Departed. I was going to apologise for not Emailing sooner for not having attended your 90th that Bo & Lorraine assured us was a lovely Party. Anyway we'll make up for it, when I catch up to you & we Tee Up in a BALL.
Au Revoir my very dear Friend, from your Friend Down Under, [Harold]
Marilyn & Dave & the Bow as Clan, to say how sorry I am is putting it so lightly & certainly does in no way convey my sense of loss & almost dismay when Lorrain & Bob brought the news to me but then reality took over & what a way to go & so I became happy for him.
I feel for you his Family & particularly Madge your Mum as she has lost her Mate, & oh how I know how lost & lonely she will be but then she has you all to comfort her & this will be a great solace, but of course not complete. [Oh how I know.] & a large part of one looks forward to the day that God sends for us & we can rejoin fact it seems as it would be like a tree in a forest that is being cleared, "The view is good from up hear but oh so lonely."
So to you the Bow Clan, I who have mourned on so many occasions understand and sympathise & pray God to help in your sorrow as I know you ask. Amen.
Harold Quirk
he was a good friend
From: Betty and Martin Taylor
To: 'Colleen Taylor'
Sent: Friday, June 23, 2006 2:56 PM
Subject: FW: Elmer
Colleen, This email is to Bob & Lorrie from Dave H. (no uncle to us). ... The anecdotes that people include is so touching. It’s nice to share them.
Thanks so much!
Love Mom
From: Bob Bowes
Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 4:13 PM
Fw: Elmer
----- Original Message -----
From: UncleDave
To: Robert E. Bowes
Sent: Thursday, June 01, 2006 2:21 PM
Subject: Elmer
Dear Bob and Laurie,
You’d have been proud of your daughter today. She delivered your “Reflections From A Son” very well, and in your absence it was a very moving tribute to your dad. When I closed my eyes, I could hear your voice and I could visualize you with your dad. It made me think of my times with my own father, who, at 82, is getting closer to the end. I think now, after listening to your words, that there are a few things I need to tell him.
I know you would have liked to have been here to celebrate his life with the rest of your family, but I know also the impossibility of that. It was great that you could get back for his 90th to help him celebrate. I am attaching a picture of your Mom and Dad that I took at the Gospel show at the Grand Ole Opry in April. The two were intent on the activity on the stage, which, at that moment, was Linda and Betty singing.
A few years ago when we were golfing, I said to your dad, “Elmer, I don’t know how much time we’ve got, but I wanted you to know that ever since I met you I’ve considered you a friend.” He said nothing. He just stuck out his hand and we shook.
Bob, I feel truly lucky to have had a friend in your dad. We golfed at least one round each year, and we kibitzed and bugged each other about the “upcoming match”. He was a true gentleman who was a lot of fun to be around. He supplied me with lots of stories, some of which I could tweak and use in the newspaper, and he gave me photos that I used in the “Pictures From the past” section of the paper.
But most of all, he was a good friend.
You were blessed, to have had him as a father. I know you’ll treasure his memory.
[Dave H.]
To: 'Colleen Taylor'
Sent: Friday, June 23, 2006 2:56 PM
Subject: FW: Elmer
Colleen, This email is to Bob & Lorrie from Dave H. (no uncle to us). ... The anecdotes that people include is so touching. It’s nice to share them.
Thanks so much!
Love Mom
From: Bob Bowes
Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 4:13 PM
Fw: Elmer
----- Original Message -----
From: UncleDave
To: Robert E. Bowes
Sent: Thursday, June 01, 2006 2:21 PM
Subject: Elmer
Dear Bob and Laurie,
You’d have been proud of your daughter today. She delivered your “Reflections From A Son” very well, and in your absence it was a very moving tribute to your dad. When I closed my eyes, I could hear your voice and I could visualize you with your dad. It made me think of my times with my own father, who, at 82, is getting closer to the end. I think now, after listening to your words, that there are a few things I need to tell him.
I know you would have liked to have been here to celebrate his life with the rest of your family, but I know also the impossibility of that. It was great that you could get back for his 90th to help him celebrate. I am attaching a picture of your Mom and Dad that I took at the Gospel show at the Grand Ole Opry in April. The two were intent on the activity on the stage, which, at that moment, was Linda and Betty singing.
A few years ago when we were golfing, I said to your dad, “Elmer, I don’t know how much time we’ve got, but I wanted you to know that ever since I met you I’ve considered you a friend.” He said nothing. He just stuck out his hand and we shook.
Bob, I feel truly lucky to have had a friend in your dad. We golfed at least one round each year, and we kibitzed and bugged each other about the “upcoming match”. He was a true gentleman who was a lot of fun to be around. He supplied me with lots of stories, some of which I could tweak and use in the newspaper, and he gave me photos that I used in the “Pictures From the past” section of the paper.
But most of all, he was a good friend.
You were blessed, to have had him as a father. I know you’ll treasure his memory.
[Dave H.]
To my Canadian family
From: Lorrie Bowes (in Australia)
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2006 6:36 AM
Subject: Hi there
To my Canadian family
How wonderful it was that we were able to celebrate Elmer's life while he was with us, that we were all able to tell him how much he meant to us and that he then had 5 weeks to absorb and reflect on it all before our gracious God took him gently and peacefully to him. What a wonderful reward for a wonderful man.
I have been trying to put into words just how much Elmer meant to me but as it says in the song "words don't come easy" especially when talking about someone so loved. How blessed was I when I met Robert and became a member of the Bowes family 34 years ago - I not only gained 4 sisters and 4 brothers but also a wonderful mother and father in law. Elmer became my Canadian father and his wisdom, gentle guidance, patience and love through the years have been such an anchor for me that mere words will never express how grateful I am and how much I loved him.
The tears are flowing too much now to continue but just remember that I love you all very much, miss you all just as much and that my thoughts and prayers are with you. I know however that our loving Lord has his arms wrapped around us all and that he will continue to comfort and strengthen us in the days ahead.
Love from your Australian sister and daughter.
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2006 6:36 AM
Subject: Hi there
To my Canadian family
How wonderful it was that we were able to celebrate Elmer's life while he was with us, that we were all able to tell him how much he meant to us and that he then had 5 weeks to absorb and reflect on it all before our gracious God took him gently and peacefully to him. What a wonderful reward for a wonderful man.
I have been trying to put into words just how much Elmer meant to me but as it says in the song "words don't come easy" especially when talking about someone so loved. How blessed was I when I met Robert and became a member of the Bowes family 34 years ago - I not only gained 4 sisters and 4 brothers but also a wonderful mother and father in law. Elmer became my Canadian father and his wisdom, gentle guidance, patience and love through the years have been such an anchor for me that mere words will never express how grateful I am and how much I loved him.
The tears are flowing too much now to continue but just remember that I love you all very much, miss you all just as much and that my thoughts and prayers are with you. I know however that our loving Lord has his arms wrapped around us all and that he will continue to comfort and strengthen us in the days ahead.
Love from your Australian sister and daughter.
obituary photo
For some reason I can't upload the obituary picture to display on this blog, but if you click this link you'll be able to see it.
This is a cropped portion from Grandpa's birthday. In the original he is posing with his 90th birthday cake.
Colleen
This is a cropped portion from Grandpa's birthday. In the original he is posing with his 90th birthday cake.
Colleen
Ike Bowes
From: Bob Bowes
Sent: Thursday, June 08, 2006 6:14 AM
Fw: Photograph
Hi Guys. The man on the right is Great Grandpa Bowes (Dad's Dad) taken in S'toon they think in the early 50's with friends whose son is now living in Aus. I have spoken to him (Rick J.) on the net but we have never met although we are trying to arrange a meeting. They live on opposite ends of the Gold Coast and we are planning to meet soon, probably at the Canada day celebrations here. Cheers, Bob
From: Rick J
To: Bob Bowes
Sent: Thursday, June 08, 2006 8:53 AM
Subject: Pic
Hi Bob, received a picture of Ike with my folks, it must be taken up at Loon Lake as the trees are not like anything from around our neck of the woods. Will try and scan it on our flat bed scanner tonight and send it too you. Mom is not sure what year it was but had to be 54-56? Dad was working for Merlin Motors and the car in the background looks like about a 54 Ford Mainline.
Do you know how old Ike would have been at that time. Looks in pretty good shape and definately a rugged bugger.
Rick
Sent: Thursday, June 08, 2006 6:14 AM
Fw: Photograph
Hi Guys. The man on the right is Great Grandpa Bowes (Dad's Dad) taken in S'toon they think in the early 50's with friends whose son is now living in Aus. I have spoken to him (Rick J.) on the net but we have never met although we are trying to arrange a meeting. They live on opposite ends of the Gold Coast and we are planning to meet soon, probably at the Canada day celebrations here. Cheers, Bob
From: Rick J
To: Bob Bowes
Sent: Thursday, June 08, 2006 8:53 AM
Subject: Pic
Hi Bob, received a picture of Ike with my folks, it must be taken up at Loon Lake as the trees are not like anything from around our neck of the woods. Will try and scan it on our flat bed scanner tonight and send it too you. Mom is not sure what year it was but had to be 54-56? Dad was working for Merlin Motors and the car in the background looks like about a 54 Ford Mainline.
Do you know how old Ike would have been at that time. Looks in pretty good shape and definately a rugged bugger.
Rick
From: Bob Bowes
To: Rick J
Sent: Thursday, June 08, 2006 9:00 AM
Subject: Re: Pic
Hi Rick. Thanks for that. I'll check with some of the family to see if they know when Ike was born. Great progress and I'm still looking forward to getting up to see you. I'm in the process of car shopping at the moment and you know what that's like. Wish me luck.
From: Bob Bowes
To: siblings
Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 4:53 PM
Subject: FW: Pic
Can anybody help with Grandpa Ike's birthday or even year???? Maybe and I betcha Mom would remember. Cheers, Bob
From: Betty and Martin Taylor
To: 'Colleen Taylor'
Sent: Friday, June 23, 2006 3:05 PM
Subject: FW: Pic
Colleen, this email came before the one I just sent you. You might want to include the pic grandpa Bowes on the blog.
There is a story behind Bob connecting with Rick J. Rick contacted Bob and asked him if he’d ever lived in S’toon in the early ‘60s. Not sure how he heard about Bob. I think it was on the internet. Imagine connecting in Australia and his family having family connections with ours!
son Bob's eulogy
GOODBYE TO THE 'GO TO GUY'
by his son, Bob Bowes,
read at the funeral by Bob's daughter Cindy
Life is so very special and today we are here together, some in spirit, to celebrate a very special life and to say goodbye to one of the most kind, gentle and well liked people most of us will ever chance to meet.
He was the GO TO GUY, the one that you could turn to when in need of a helping hand or a quick loan or a ride somewhere or just needed a friend. He once carried a hundred pound sack of flour several blocks with a broken rib because he thought his bigger friend who was ill might be hurting more than he was.
He was the GO TO GUY you called on when the team desperately needed a clutch hit or a fancy take out or a draw to the button to save an end or the one you wanted putting last for you in best ball.
He could play the guitar, fiddle, piano and harmonica and with his good looks and cheeky grin, the hearts of women... The best one of all he kissed goodnight after the hockey game Friday night and went off peacefully to his final resting place.
He was the guy with the cheery smile and a wave to everyone he met on the road and the time for a quick chat on the street or the golf course. Your time was his and his was yours and I never heard him say a bad word about anybody.
He was the man they wouldn't let fight for his country because of a bad heart... A heart that we all know was as big and strong as a horse. He always fought well above his weight.... And he cooked a mean pancake.
He was a man of great wisdom and talent that would dazzle us with his knowledge of world history and geography and his photographic memory for phone numbers was legendary. Even at 90 he could rattle off almost any phone number in town that he'd ever called and many in other towns as well ...And he cooked a mean pancake.
To his Children and Grand Children, he was fixer, healer, mentor, story teller, good listener, provider, nd car owner for a heavy footed son and 4 daughters with dead beat boy friends. The odd one slipped through our defences and married in.
To us all, He and Mom were everything and his memory will be forever cherished.
He wouldn't deny us our sadness at his passing but would want us today to remember and celebrate his good and full life....
He was after all THE GO TO GUY ... And man could he cook pancakes.
Goodbye Dear Heart, God be with you and may you rest in Peace. We love you.
an email conversation: Bob Bowes & friends
From: Betty and Martin Taylor
To: 'Colleen Taylor'
Sent: Friday, June 23, 2006 2:47 PM
Subject: FW: A sad day
Hi Colleen,
As you notice, I’m forwarding a few emails which I thought might be of interest on the blog. It might be good to just put in the applicable dialogue in reverse order (first message first) instead of the way it appears on an email reply.
I thought this dialogue between Bob and Lee F. was full of nostalgia. She and her brother Rod were friends of Bob’s from school days. Mom and dad were very good friends of their parents. They even took a trip together to the states, as the one email mentioned.
Colleen's note:
Uncle Bob lives in Australia.
As per Mom's suggestion, the emails occur in chronological order.
From: Bob Bowes
Sent: Friday, May 26, 2006 6:47 PM
To: various friends
Subject: A sad day
Dear friends
After all my bragging about not ever having lost anyone close I get hit with the big one first.
My wonderful Dad passed away peacefully in his sleep between 2 and 3 am
Friday morning at the Seniors lodge in Spiritwood.
He had just watched the Oiler game in Mom's room at the lodge, kissed her goodnight and headed off to his own room in the respite section where he was staying while my sister Betty and husband Martin were out of town.
Dad was 90 and we thank God for the wonderful time we had just 5 weeks ago when we celebrated that birthday. He sang and danced with the Grand kids and made a wonderful speech. We couldn't slow him down and he stayed up late relishing the day while most of us had gone to bed. He was the baby of the family and the last to go. He will be sorely missed.
Funeral arrangements haven't been finalized yet but I am guessing early next week. Having just been home 5 weeks ago, Lorrie and I sadly won't be able to make it back and we ask for your prayers for our family.
Bye for now, Bob
From: Lee
To: Bob Bowes
Sent: Saturday, May 27, 2006 2:17 PM
Subject: Re: A sad day
Bless him! Sounds like he went quickly. Will your mom understand?? Hard to be left behind. I immediately thought of the time Rod, Donna and I went to Spiritwood a few years ago, dropped in on your mom and dad in their old house, we were made to feel as welcome as celebrities and the talk was easy and abundant, he felt we should stay much longer of course and we had such a good visit. Losing him will be tough for you, I am so glad you were with him recently - he would have loved that!! And the occasion of his birthday would have given you all opportunity to look back on his good life of loving his family and serving his community. Take care, I'm thinking about you....
From: Bob Bowes
To: Lee
Sent: Sunday, May 28, 2006 4:15 PM
Subject: Re: A sad day
Hi Lee. Thanks for that. What a sad time. I was a basket case for a couple of nights and sure looked my age in the morning. We are sure thankful for the last visit. What better Wake than a 90th birthday party. Luckily someone took movies of the whole thing, copies of which will be in high demand now.
Our next trip home will for sure have an Edmonton stop in it. For some reason we didn't want to stray too far from Spiritwood last April but did get to see all the kids at the party.
I haven't heard from Rod so if you're talking to him, give him our best. Take care, Bob
From: Lee
To: Bob Bowes
Sent: Tuesday, May 30, 2006 8:38 AM
Subject: Re: A sad day
Have been thinking about your dad and I know if my mom were alive she would want me to remind you of the two stories that she often told about your mom and dad. the first was about the trip that your folks took to the states with my folks (a VERY BIG deal in those days) and one of the stops they made was I think at your mom's sister's place in the States and she and her family didn't know anything about curling so my dad and yours set up a "rink" scenario on a rectangular glass covered coffee table and used salt and pepper shakers for rocks and did a whole demo! including whole ends, scoring and everything! Can't you just see them in your mind's eye??
The second was around the time when your mom was very pregnant with one of the younger girls, almost due to deliver. Your mom was ticked off cause your dad once again forgot to do some household chore (I think it was to take the garbage out) and she decided to teach him a lesson so she called the elevator and in a very breathless voice said, "Elmer, come home quick!" and hung up and then phoned my mom laughing to tell her what she had done. So your dad tore home thinking the baby was coming fast and when he walked in, your mom reminded him of the chore he forgot to do. My mom and yours had many laughs about that story. They knew how to have fun, didn't they? Hope you're doing OK and using this time to enjoy good memories. (Bob, will your mom understand what has happened?) Take care.....
From: Bob Bowes
Sent: Monday, May 29, 2006 3:51 PM
To: [siblings]
Subject: Fw: A sad day
Hi Guys. Just got this email from Lee Folliott (Hope) It might be useful in the Eulogy if the girls need some more input. The story about the garbage has changed a bit over the years but the gist is the same. Calling soon. Bob
Colleen's note:
I didn't notice if Uncle Bob answered Lee's question about Grandma understanding Grandpa's passing. The short answer is yes, she seemed quite aware of what was happening -- before, during, and after the funeral. She kept repeating, "I just can't believe it."
At the viewing the day before the funeral, my mother said to her, "Imagine, Mom, you were married 68 years." Grandma thought a moment and replied, "That's a long time. But not too long."
To: 'Colleen Taylor'
Sent: Friday, June 23, 2006 2:47 PM
Subject: FW: A sad day
Hi Colleen,
As you notice, I’m forwarding a few emails which I thought might be of interest on the blog. It might be good to just put in the applicable dialogue in reverse order (first message first) instead of the way it appears on an email reply.
I thought this dialogue between Bob and Lee F. was full of nostalgia. She and her brother Rod were friends of Bob’s from school days. Mom and dad were very good friends of their parents. They even took a trip together to the states, as the one email mentioned.
Colleen's note:
Uncle Bob lives in Australia.
As per Mom's suggestion, the emails occur in chronological order.
From: Bob Bowes
Sent: Friday, May 26, 2006 6:47 PM
To: various friends
Subject: A sad day
Dear friends
After all my bragging about not ever having lost anyone close I get hit with the big one first.
My wonderful Dad passed away peacefully in his sleep between 2 and 3 am
Friday morning at the Seniors lodge in Spiritwood.
He had just watched the Oiler game in Mom's room at the lodge, kissed her goodnight and headed off to his own room in the respite section where he was staying while my sister Betty and husband Martin were out of town.
Dad was 90 and we thank God for the wonderful time we had just 5 weeks ago when we celebrated that birthday. He sang and danced with the Grand kids and made a wonderful speech. We couldn't slow him down and he stayed up late relishing the day while most of us had gone to bed. He was the baby of the family and the last to go. He will be sorely missed.
Funeral arrangements haven't been finalized yet but I am guessing early next week. Having just been home 5 weeks ago, Lorrie and I sadly won't be able to make it back and we ask for your prayers for our family.
Bye for now, Bob
From: Lee
To: Bob Bowes
Sent: Saturday, May 27, 2006 2:17 PM
Subject: Re: A sad day
Bless him! Sounds like he went quickly. Will your mom understand?? Hard to be left behind. I immediately thought of the time Rod, Donna and I went to Spiritwood a few years ago, dropped in on your mom and dad in their old house, we were made to feel as welcome as celebrities and the talk was easy and abundant, he felt we should stay much longer of course and we had such a good visit. Losing him will be tough for you, I am so glad you were with him recently - he would have loved that!! And the occasion of his birthday would have given you all opportunity to look back on his good life of loving his family and serving his community. Take care, I'm thinking about you....
From: Bob Bowes
To: Lee
Sent: Sunday, May 28, 2006 4:15 PM
Subject: Re: A sad day
Hi Lee. Thanks for that. What a sad time. I was a basket case for a couple of nights and sure looked my age in the morning. We are sure thankful for the last visit. What better Wake than a 90th birthday party. Luckily someone took movies of the whole thing, copies of which will be in high demand now.
Our next trip home will for sure have an Edmonton stop in it. For some reason we didn't want to stray too far from Spiritwood last April but did get to see all the kids at the party.
I haven't heard from Rod so if you're talking to him, give him our best. Take care, Bob
From: Lee
To: Bob Bowes
Sent: Tuesday, May 30, 2006 8:38 AM
Subject: Re: A sad day
Have been thinking about your dad and I know if my mom were alive she would want me to remind you of the two stories that she often told about your mom and dad. the first was about the trip that your folks took to the states with my folks (a VERY BIG deal in those days) and one of the stops they made was I think at your mom's sister's place in the States and she and her family didn't know anything about curling so my dad and yours set up a "rink" scenario on a rectangular glass covered coffee table and used salt and pepper shakers for rocks and did a whole demo! including whole ends, scoring and everything! Can't you just see them in your mind's eye??
The second was around the time when your mom was very pregnant with one of the younger girls, almost due to deliver. Your mom was ticked off cause your dad once again forgot to do some household chore (I think it was to take the garbage out) and she decided to teach him a lesson so she called the elevator and in a very breathless voice said, "Elmer, come home quick!" and hung up and then phoned my mom laughing to tell her what she had done. So your dad tore home thinking the baby was coming fast and when he walked in, your mom reminded him of the chore he forgot to do. My mom and yours had many laughs about that story. They knew how to have fun, didn't they? Hope you're doing OK and using this time to enjoy good memories. (Bob, will your mom understand what has happened?) Take care.....
From: Bob Bowes
Sent: Monday, May 29, 2006 3:51 PM
To: [siblings]
Subject: Fw: A sad day
Hi Guys. Just got this email from Lee Folliott (Hope) It might be useful in the Eulogy if the girls need some more input. The story about the garbage has changed a bit over the years but the gist is the same. Calling soon. Bob
Colleen's note:
I didn't notice if Uncle Bob answered Lee's question about Grandma understanding Grandpa's passing. The short answer is yes, she seemed quite aware of what was happening -- before, during, and after the funeral. She kept repeating, "I just can't believe it."
At the viewing the day before the funeral, my mother said to her, "Imagine, Mom, you were married 68 years." Grandma thought a moment and replied, "That's a long time. But not too long."
Monday, June 26, 2006
obituary
This obituary that went to Spiritwood and Meadow Lake newspapers.
Elmer Ross Bowes
April 2, 1916 – May 26, 2006
Elmer Ross Bowes was born on April 2, 1916, at Saskatoon, SK. He passed away peacefully in his sleep at age ninety, on May 26th, 2006. The youngest of six children born to Isaac (Ike) and Mary Bowes, Elmer was four when the family moved to a farm near Vanscoy, SK. When the family moved north to a homestead near Makwa, SK, Elmer stayed with friends intending to complete high school, but joined his family at the completion of grade ten as he was need on the farm. In Makwa he met Madge Cockrum, who had moved to the area from Texas with her family. They were married on Oct. 9th , 1937, and moved to their homestead near Makwa. A job at the Searle Grain Elevator supplemented the farm income, and began a grain-buying career that lasted eighteen years, and took the family from the homestead to Bapaume, SK in 1941, then to Spiritwood in 1947, which was the last move for he and Madge. In 1958, Elmer left the elevator when they purchased a general store that later became the local dry cleaners and laundromat. Following retirement from the business, Elmer drove school bus for the school division, and later became the custodian for the offices. Still full of vigor in his seventies, Elmer laboured along with four partners, to build the Spiritwood Golf Course. Elmer excelled at baseball and over his 36 years in baseball, played for teams in Vanscoy, Delisle, Makwa, Meadow Lake, Glaslyn, North Battleford, and lastly Spiritwood. Curling was his winter passion up to age 89. Elmer was active in community service over the years as a coach, a member of the Home and School Association, was active in the Free Methodist Church, a School Unit Board trustee, member and president of the Board of trade, and executive member of the Centennial Arena Association. He sat as a Town Councillor, then Mayor of Spiritwood during the Fifties. He was a Mason with the Shellbrook chapter, a charter member of the local Lions Club, was a member of the History book Committee, the Spiritwood Writers group, and the Museum Society. Elmer was predeceased by his parents, Mary and Isaac Bowes; brothers, Ken and Claude; sisters, Myrtle Emmerson, Edith MacPherson, and Effie Midgett; father-in-law, Guernsey Cockrum, mother-in-law, Ocie Cockrum; brothers-in-law, Fred Emmerson, Carl MacPherson, Clyde Midgett, and Delbert Mann. Elmer was a wonderful role model. He will be sadly missed by his wife, Madge, of 68 years, his children and their spouses: Bob (Lorrie) Bowes (Coolangatta, Australia), Marilynn (Dave) Ashby (Cold Lake, AB), Betty (Martin) Taylor, Linda (Glenn) Pilling (Spiritwood, SK), Sherry (Zane) Olson (Estevan, SK), his 16 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and his many relatives and friends. The funeral service was held in Spiritwood, May 31, 2006, arrangements in care of Beau “Lac” Funeral Home. Donations can be made to the Spiritwood Idylwild Lodge Auxiliary.
Elmer Ross Bowes
April 2, 1916 – May 26, 2006
Elmer Ross Bowes was born on April 2, 1916, at Saskatoon, SK. He passed away peacefully in his sleep at age ninety, on May 26th, 2006. The youngest of six children born to Isaac (Ike) and Mary Bowes, Elmer was four when the family moved to a farm near Vanscoy, SK. When the family moved north to a homestead near Makwa, SK, Elmer stayed with friends intending to complete high school, but joined his family at the completion of grade ten as he was need on the farm. In Makwa he met Madge Cockrum, who had moved to the area from Texas with her family. They were married on Oct. 9th , 1937, and moved to their homestead near Makwa. A job at the Searle Grain Elevator supplemented the farm income, and began a grain-buying career that lasted eighteen years, and took the family from the homestead to Bapaume, SK in 1941, then to Spiritwood in 1947, which was the last move for he and Madge. In 1958, Elmer left the elevator when they purchased a general store that later became the local dry cleaners and laundromat. Following retirement from the business, Elmer drove school bus for the school division, and later became the custodian for the offices. Still full of vigor in his seventies, Elmer laboured along with four partners, to build the Spiritwood Golf Course. Elmer excelled at baseball and over his 36 years in baseball, played for teams in Vanscoy, Delisle, Makwa, Meadow Lake, Glaslyn, North Battleford, and lastly Spiritwood. Curling was his winter passion up to age 89. Elmer was active in community service over the years as a coach, a member of the Home and School Association, was active in the Free Methodist Church, a School Unit Board trustee, member and president of the Board of trade, and executive member of the Centennial Arena Association. He sat as a Town Councillor, then Mayor of Spiritwood during the Fifties. He was a Mason with the Shellbrook chapter, a charter member of the local Lions Club, was a member of the History book Committee, the Spiritwood Writers group, and the Museum Society. Elmer was predeceased by his parents, Mary and Isaac Bowes; brothers, Ken and Claude; sisters, Myrtle Emmerson, Edith MacPherson, and Effie Midgett; father-in-law, Guernsey Cockrum, mother-in-law, Ocie Cockrum; brothers-in-law, Fred Emmerson, Carl MacPherson, Clyde Midgett, and Delbert Mann. Elmer was a wonderful role model. He will be sadly missed by his wife, Madge, of 68 years, his children and their spouses: Bob (Lorrie) Bowes (Coolangatta, Australia), Marilynn (Dave) Ashby (Cold Lake, AB), Betty (Martin) Taylor, Linda (Glenn) Pilling (Spiritwood, SK), Sherry (Zane) Olson (Estevan, SK), his 16 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and his many relatives and friends. The funeral service was held in Spiritwood, May 31, 2006, arrangements in care of Beau “Lac” Funeral Home. Donations can be made to the Spiritwood Idylwild Lodge Auxiliary.
Friday, June 09, 2006
Dustin: Family Legacy
Full text from Dustin's weblog.
Thursday, June 08, 2006
SO in recent encounters with some relatives I have decided to try my hand at poetry, even though I would not call what I write true poetry since I am sure that it lacks my structure to the real writer. Regardless I wish to place this poem on here as a tribute to my Grandfather (whom I was very close with) who recently passed on. He was a great man and to quote my father "was as close to perfect as anyone he has ever met". That pretty much sums up my Grandpa.
Family Legacy
(An Ode to my Grandfather)
It started with one man and his wife,
Joined together in love, for life,
Not knowing what they’d start,
Just following love from their hearts.
One man and his wife,
Creating so much life,
Leading by example,
Giving a legacy,
from one generation to the next,
A pilot,
A poet,
A thinker,
A worker,
Artist,
Musician,
Accountant,
Businessperson,
Teacher,
Farmer,
Athlete,
Scientist,
Philosopher.
All rooted in one man and his wife,
Given together in love for life,
Starting something they could not know,
I hope they were proud as they watched us grow.
The closest to perfection that could be seen,
Coming out of one human being,
He gave himself to each generation for all to see,
A man and his wife’s family Legacy.
Jeffrey: Legacy
Full text from Jeffrey's weblog:
Legacy
What a legacy you've left
my dear elder friend,
such love and joy
to which I have borne
proud witness.
Early Friday morning,
My Grandfather
passed away.
I'm up at my parent's in
Spiritwood SK,
putting together
all the video I've shot of Grandpa,
and sitting in the midst
of my relative's reflections
on this great man.
Well belovedin his community,
a man of many talents,
and the genetic source
I am sure of my creative impulses!.
Always quick with a joke,
and a huge smile.
Generous, fun loving,
gentle and eloquent.
But most of all faithful in prayer,
for his wife, family and friends.
Loving God with his whole heart.
Farewell.
And see you in Heaven someday
I love you Grandpa.
Legacy
What a legacy you've left
my dear elder friend,
such love and joy
to which I have borne
proud witness.
Early Friday morning,
My Grandfather
passed away.
I'm up at my parent's in
Spiritwood SK,
putting together
all the video I've shot of Grandpa,
and sitting in the midst
of my relative's reflections
on this great man.
Well belovedin his community,
a man of many talents,
and the genetic source
I am sure of my creative impulses!.
Always quick with a joke,
and a huge smile.
Generous, fun loving,
gentle and eloquent.
But most of all faithful in prayer,
for his wife, family and friends.
Loving God with his whole heart.
Farewell.
And see you in Heaven someday
I love you Grandpa.
Thursday, June 08, 2006
grandchildren pay tribute
Jeff has posted a family photo from Grandpa's birthday party along with a poem.
I realized that some of my regular audience might appreciate an update on my blog.
Inspired by Jeff's and my poetry, Dustin followed suit with his own tribute to Grandpa.
I realized that some of my regular audience might appreciate an update on my blog.
Inspired by Jeff's and my poetry, Dustin followed suit with his own tribute to Grandpa.
Thursday, June 01, 2006
I'll fly away
Some glad morning when this life is o'er, I'll fly away;
To a home on God's celestial shore, I'll fly away (I'll fly away).
[Chorus] I'll fly away, Oh Glory
I'll fly away (in the morning);
When I die, Hallelujah, by and by,
I'll fly away (I'll fly away).
When the shadows of this life have gone, I'll fly away;
Like a bird from prison bars has flown, I'll fly away (I'll fly away)
[Chorus] I'll fly away, Oh Glory
I'll fly away (in the morning);
When I die, Hallelujah, by and by,
I'll fly away (I'll fly away).
Just a few more weary days and then,I'll fly away;
To a land where joy shall never end, I'll fly away (I'll fly away)
[Chorus] I'll fly away, Oh Glory
I'll fly away (in the morning);
When I die, Hallelujah, by and by,
I'll fly away (I'll fly away).
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