Beverly Ann Bookwalter

Beverly Ann Bookwalter, 87, went to be with her Lord and Savior peacefully on April 10, 2026 with her children by her side. She was born to Guy and Irene Mehlin on February 1, 1939, in Humboldt, Nebraska. She was an only child and while growing up enjoyed spending cherished time with her loving grandparents.

While attending Peru College during her sophomore year she met her lifelong love John Bookwalter and they married the following year on March 29,1959. After graduation they moved to Tehachapi, CA and the following year found their permanent home in Visalia, CA. She worked on and off throughout her life, but her most important and fulfilling job was being a homemaker and raising her children.

Upon moving to Visalia, John and Beverly joined Christ Lutheran Church where they became active members and worshiped for over 60 years. She was active in many aspects including vacation bible school, church choir, annual Swedish pancake breakfasts and for over three decades she organized the church’s altar guild with care and dedication. Her involvement in church events and her close friendships within the congregation were central to her life.

She treasured her time with her Thursday morning breakfast group which met for many years. She was also a savvy bridge player, and later in life joined multiple bridge groups where she made wonderful friends. A devoted tennis fan, she and John enjoyed many years of attending the Indian Wells tennis tournament making good friends along the way. Beverly found her greatest joy in spending time with her family, watching her grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow, which brought immense pride and joy to her life.

Her kind heart and steadfast love for her family will be remembered by all who knew her. Beverly’s strong faith guided her throughout her life and provided comfort to those around her.

Beverly was the beloved wife of the late John Bookwalter, with whom she shared 64 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they built a legacy of love and devotion that continues to inspire their family. She is survived by her children: John Bookwalter, Greg Bookwalter, and Lynn Peters (husband Tony). Beverly was also a cherished grandmother to Joshua, Jeremy, Taylor, Mackenzie, Logan, and Megan and a proud great-grandmother (Gigi) to James, Patrick, and Juliana.

A Celebration of Life will be held on April 23, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Christ Lutheran Church with a luncheon to follow. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Christ Lutheran Church Celebration of Life fund.