Martha M. Bowlus

Martha M. Bowlus was born Nov. 17, 1918 in Winfield, Kansas; on Sept. 9, 2010 she peacefully passed away at the Victoria Care Center in Ventura, CA after 91 years of a wonderfully creative and inspired life.

She is survived by her loving daughter Barbara and husband Bill; her beloved granddaughter Alexandra and husband Carl; Bill's son Chris; her niece and nephews Cathy, Tom, Richard and David and their extended families; her sister-in-law Marjorie: her cousin Janice and sons Garey and Gilbert. Martha was the only daughter among four brothers, all now deceased.

Martha has touched the lives of so many people. As a Professor of Music, she has taught organ and piano to countless students over the years, both at Ohio Wesleyan University and privately, supplied liturgical music for many churches, performed in many concerts and recitals playing both organ and viola (an instrument she mastered as well), and acted as consultant to many other musicians. She and her husband, Robert Bowlus (Barbara’s father) together gave the gift of music to many. They were married for 25 years, and both were members of the Episcopal Church. He passed away in 1967.

Martha’s kindness, gentleness, creativity and spiritual inspiration have been a blessing to all who knew her. She has been a direct and important part of her daughter’s household for the past 21 years, being actively involved in the raising of her granddaughter. Her daughter, Barbara, feels eternally blessed to have had her as her mother. Martha will live in her heart forever, as she undoubtedly will for many others. Her daughter so cherishes all of their many experiences together – traveling throughout Europe and the U.S., camping, enjoying music and cherishing the presence of Martha’s only grandchild, Alexandra. Martha has always been close to God, and is now experiencing this Oneness completely. May Peace and Love be with her forever.

A Memorial service will be held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 3290 Loma Vista Road, Ventura, CA on Saturday, Sept. 25 at 1:00 p.m.

Arrangements under the direction of Charles Carroll Funeral Home, Ventura, CA.