1947
2017
Elsie M. Bowen, 70, of Rockford, passed away on Monday, November 6, 2017. Born April 5, 1947 in Blair, NE. Daughter of Lewis and Carol (Norris) Hillman. United in marriage to Robert Bowen on October 27, 1973 in Rockford, IL. Employed by Barber Colman retiring in 2001. Lifelong Chicago Bulls Fan. She found enjoyment in camping, fishing, sitting on the deck, tending to her flower gardens, hosting holiday parties especially Thanksgiving but above all her greatest enjoyment was spending time with her family.
Survived by her loving husband of 45 years, Robert; daughters, Kristy Bowen and Becky (Chris) Webster; grandpuppy, Whiskey; sister-in-law, Nancy Hillman; best friends, Sandy Tipp and Donna Beck; several "favorite" nieces and nephews. Predeceased by siblings, David Hillman and Ronda Warren.
Memorial Service at 2 p.m. on Friday, November 10 at Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 N. Alpine Rd, Machesney Park. Visitation at 1 p.m. until time of service. Burial will be at a later date.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Sunset Funeral Home.
November 10, 2017
Tammy Stafford
Hands to provide a comforting embrace,
Sparkling eyes with your beautiful face,
you saw what others may have not
a little girl who would not,
have had the guidance to grow.
Without you who knows,
What would have become of me, How did you know?
You came into my life with your contagious laughter and wit,
So special you made all around you feel with it.
As a like girl, I rode my bike to your house all the time,
Over the years you helped me climb,
Through the hard times and the good you were there,
Whether by phone, in person or in my mind you shared,
your wisdom, your love and your laughter.
You will live on in the hearts off your husband, your friends, your family and your daughters,
It's amazing all the lives you have touched,
This little girl will miss you so, so very much!
Thank you Uncle Bob for bringing this beautiful woman into our family.
Elsie, I will miss being able to call you or stop by for your wisdom and wit. My sweet and spicy aunt. Thank you for all the times you have been there, rest now with no pain. Then enjoy your time with your sister and all your family you can see again.
" It Is Well with Her Soul"
November 10, 2017
Sharie Nelson
I worked with Elsie at Barber-Colman. She was a wonderful lady! My deepest condolences to her family.
November 10, 2017
Donna Beck
I will greatly miss my lifetime friend. She has left a storehouse of memories with me. Mostly I will remember the laughter we shared and the silly episodes of our childhood.
November 9, 2017
Kathie & Ron Klaman
Ron & I want to offer our heartfelt condolences in your loss of Elsie Marie ("Old Broad" to me). Elsie was such a fun gal - always about family and good friends. I had the best of two worlds - being a friend of Elsie Marie and also her sister, Ronda Jean! They are together now and I am sure between the two of them, they're having a wonderful Heavenly Sister-Time together, and planning what they can do next. I miss Ronda Jean a lot, and now I will miss Elsie Marie too. Everyone will, because they were "Git 'er done" gals! R.I.P. Elsie - I know the family will have a Blue Christmas without the two of you, but I know you and Ronda will have a beautiful one in Heaven! Love & Hugs, Miss Kitty
November 8, 2017
Lily Hayden
Aunt Elsie you had me at hello! I loved you from the start! You always made me smile, laugh and listen,lol! You are my Aunt Elsie and my mom and my BFF! I will miss you so very much but like you always told me you are always in my heart even if there is distance between us, god love you! My angel!!
November 8, 2017
Wendy Klassen
Ree has always been one of my favorite people. I always looked forward to seeing her and spending time with her. She is one of the most loving and funny ladies I have ever known. Loved when she and mom would be together. There was never a dull or silent moment. I can still here them laughing and non stop talking. Loved her so very much.
November 7, 2017
Tracy Knox
The world just lost a wonderful woman! We will miss you Aunt Elsie. Love and hugs to you all. Love - Tracy and Blake
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