Anola Burris Gill Bowerman

Anola Burris Gill Bowerman, 89, left this life March 9, 2017 to join other family members. Daughter of Robert L. and Amy Kirk Burris she was born September 3, 1927 in Ware, IL. Nicknamed “mouse” she married Harry Gill Sept. 25, 1946 in Cape Girardeau where she lived most of her adult life. A member of Old St Vincent’s/St Mary’s Cathedral she was a past member of the Alter Sodality, Daughters of Isabell and VFW Ladies Auxiliary. After Harry’s death, she was a founding member of Parents Without Partners where she met and married Ralph Bowerman. They moved to Alton, IL and managed the kitchen for the Alton Motor Boat Club, later moving back home. Ralph preceded her in death in 2006. Anola’s outlook on life, great sense of humor, and loving family got her through the many tragedies she endured. Staying active with hard work and gardening kept her going strong for many years. Anola and Harry were blessed with 10 children. When her health started failing, a daughter, Patricia Dokich, moved in to help care for her the past 9 years. She was always grateful for the love and care from Patricia and others of her children and grandchildren. Survivors include children Hugh (Sue) Gill, Harry Gill, Anola (Mike) Stowick, Martha (Tom) Hamilton, Jeannie (Bill) Hinck and Patricia Dokich as well as missing daughter Elizabeth "Beth" Gill and step children, Linda (Ralph) Mueller and Lindsey Bowerman. Also 34 grandchildren and great-grandchildren and siblings, Gilbert Burris and Carole Glasson. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death, by Harry Gill, Ralph Bowerman; daughters, Laura Whittaker, Mary Grimes and son J. Patrick Gill along with 6 siblings. We grieve not for Anola who’s suffering is over, but for family and friends who will forever have a vacant place in our hearts. Visitation will be at Ford and Sons Mt. Auburn Chapel from 5-7pm on Monday, March 13, 2017 with parish prayers at 7 pm. Funeral mass will be at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday at Old St Vincent’s Catholic Church, downtown Cape Girardeau. Burial will follow at St. Mary Cemetery in Cape Girardeau. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Morgan Nick Foundation for Missing Children, Alma, AR.

Tributes

Anola Burris Gill Bowerman

September 3, 1927 - March 9, 2017