She was born in Springfield, January 16, 1947 the daughter of Harry and Mildred (Schulze) Bowden. She was educated at Trinity Lutheran School in Springfield, went on to graduate from Lanphier High School in 1965 and then from Valparaiso University in 1969.
Sue began her teaching career with the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod in the fall of 1969 at St. John’s Lutheran School in Ellisville, MO, she then accepted a call to serve at Our Savior’s Lutheran School, Springfield, IL where she served as the Varsity Volleyball Coach leading the her squad to the State Championship in 1991. Sue also served as the director of the adult choir, middle school choir as well directed several musicals and Christmas programs for many years. She would leave her hometown to serve as principal at St. John’s Lutheran School in Champaign, IL and later to Zion Lutheran School in Alexandria, MN where she would retire as principal. She followed her passion for education and missions to serve in the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod Office in Hong Kong. Sue then served as an educator at the Hong Kong International School. She returned to Springfield and served as a Tutor and Mentor at Our Savior’s Lutheran School retiring a second time at the conclusion of the 2018-2019 school year.
Sue was graced with a beautiful voice that she humbly shared over the years at weddings, funerals and in worship. Although no children of her own, she was seen as a parent figure to many children over the years that she mentored and guided in her role as a teacher and administrator. Sue was passionate about using her resources to support others in need. In her later years, she became even more excited about being able to support the efforts that were intentionally focused on the proclamation of the Gospel.
Sue loved to travel and learn about other cultures. She loved history, instilled in her by her father, particularly the Civil War which culminated in her organizing an eighth grade class trip (class of 1995-1996) to Washington D.C.
She was a dear and wonderful friend to many across the globe. Supportive and loving colleague in ministry and a humble servant of the Lord. Her family was extremely important to her. She was a loving daughter, sister, aunt and Godmother. She will be missed by all who were blessed to know her.
Family and friends will gather for visitation on Wednesday, December 30, 2020 at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church 2645 Old Jacksonville Rd. Springfield, IL from 9:30 am until 11:15 am. A funeral service will follow at 11:30 am at the church with Rev. Daniel Eggold officiating. Those wishing to attend the service must pre-register at http://www.oursaviors-church.org/suebowdenfuneral Cremation rites will be accorded following the service with private family inurnment in Roselawn Memorial Park. CDC and IDPH guidelines will be followed requiring face coverings and social distancing. 100 guest will be allowed in the church a one time.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Our Savior's Lutheran School 2645 Old Jacksonville Rd., Springfield, IL 62704 or Mission for Christ-Intentional Gospel Proclamation PO Box 533 Concordia, MO 64020 www.missionforchrist.org.
Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischfuneralhomewest.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.
Arrangements are in the care of Bisch Funeral Home West 217-544-5424
