Linda Bowerman, 82

M. Linda (Garman) Bowerman, age 82, formerly of Mendon and Kalamazoo, died Tuesday, Sept. 6, 2022 in North Carolina. She was born in Three Rivers on June 23, 1940 the daughter of Marlon L. and M. Louise (Warrick) Garman. She graduated from Mendon High School with the class of 1958. She was married to Larry Bowerman on Oct. 14, 1961 in Mendon. They were later divorced. Linda continued her education at Western Michigan University first earning her Associate’s Degree, then a four-year teaching degree, and finally her Master’s Degree in Education. Linda taught for 39 years for Portage Schools, primarily at Central Elementary. She was a Member the Michigan Education Association, was a volunteer for the Kalamazoo Symphony and the USTA Tennis Tournament in Kalamazoo. She was a very active member of the Milwood United Methodist Church where she was a member of the bell choir. She enjoyed reading, gardening, playing bridge, and travels across the country.

Linda is survived by her daughter, Jennifer (Greg) Willoughby of Clayton, NC; a grandson, Connor Willoughby; two brothers, Brian (Suzanne Hiebert) Garman of Brandon, FL and Mark (Shellie) Garman of Louisville, KY; and sister-in-law, Barbara Garman of Illinois. She was preceded in death by her parents; and by her brother, Larry Garman.

Cremation was conducted in North Carolina. A memorial service is planned for 11 am Saturday, Oct. 1, 2022 at the Milwood United Methodist Church, 3919 Portage Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49001 with Pastor Caleb Williams officiating. Following a gathering in the social room of the church, interment will be in Mendon Cemetery. Those who wish to honor Linda may make a contribution to a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements were by the Eickhoff Funeral Home of Mendon. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.eickhofffuneralhome.com