Barbara was born on February 28, 1946, in South Bend, Indiana to loving parents, Lester and Anna Bowman, and was one of seven children. From early childhood she enjoyed drawing and painting, listening to music, and dancing with her siblings and friends. After graduation from Mishawaka High School, she attended Ball State University, earning a BA degree in Fine Arts.
Upon graduation Barbara married and had two children, Leslie and Brian. Being a mother was one of the most important and fulfilling parts of her life, a role that filled her with pride and joy. She instilled in her children the importance of family values, hard work, humor, staying curious, and a deep appreciation for nature.
As life continued, she enjoyed gardening, reading, traveling and watching Jeopardy (she was REALLY good at Jeopardy!). Barbara utilized her keen artistic and home decorating skills during the many years she worked in the furniture and rug departments of Macy’s where she developed many deep and lasting friendships. Her artistic talents were extensive, ranging from painting beautifully framed still life's, landscapes, animals and portraits to realistic duck decoys and wall murals; writing in calligraphy to sewing purses, totes and throw pillows; and designing home interiors and gardens. Several of her creative pursuits turned into successful businesses, including her lovely shop, My English Cottage, where she created and sold her artwork and floral arrangements, as well as antiques and refurbished furniture and knick-knacks.
Barbara Kiewitt was a kind, caring and giving person who was passionate about her relationship with God, her children, grandchildren, family and close friends. Throughout her two and a half year battle with cancer, Barbara kept a positive, happy outlook on life and loved to put a smile on the faces of others: her family, friends, and her team at Community North Cancer Center, especially Nurse Liz and Don the Valet.
Barbara is survived by daughter Leslie (John) Booth of Fishers; son, Brian (Julianne) Kiewitt of Fishers; grandchildren, Annelisa Booth, Evan Booth, Emma Kiewitt and Adam Kiewitt; sisters, Patricia Bowman of Mishawaka, IN and Kathleen Parker of McCordsville with whom she shared a home for nineteen years; brothers, Donald Bowman, Lester John Bowman and David Bowman, all of Mishawaka; former spouse, Robert Kiewitt of Indianapolis; along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Barbara joins her parents, Lester O. and Anna Meszaros Bowman, and brother Kenneth A. Bowman in Heaven.
Barbara’s faith in God was strong and her love for her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was deep and enduring.
“I know that there is nothing better for man than to be happy and do good while they live.” Ecclesiastes 3:12
A Celebration of Barbara’s Life will be held Saturday, July 16, 2022, at the Gothic Chapel at Crown Hill Funeral Home and Cemetery, 700 W. 38th St, Indianapolis, IN 46208. Visitation Gathering is at noon followed by the Celebration Service at 1:00 pm; both will be held at the Gothic Chapel.
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