Funeral Plans

Viewing

Wednesday, October 7

5 pm to 8 pm

Hansen Mortuary & Chapel

8314 North 7^th Street

(on 7^th Street, south of Dunlap)

Funeral

Thursday, October 8th

LDS Chapel 3601 E. Shea Blvd

Service at 11:00am

Viewing from 9-10:30am

To the newspaper

Ruth Stander Bowler, beloved wife, mother of 10, grandmother of 32, sister, daughter and dear friend passed away peacefully in her sleep Monday morning, October 4th. Ruth was born and raised in Brigham City, Utah, the oldest daughter of William and Doris Stander. She attended Box Elder High School. She graduated from LDS Business College in SLC, during which time she met her husband of 43 years, Charles Bowler at a church dance. Raising 6 boys and 4 girls gave her plenty of material with which to blackmail her children, but she could never bring herself to hold any of her arsons or curfew violators accountable for their “crimes”. Known best of all for her humility and selfless love, Ruth was not one to complain or gossip. Instead, her kind words and constant friendship were monumental in the effect they had on all who knew her. She was and is the strength behind her 10 children, and the kindest confidant and most constant friend to all she met. She was diagnosed with Mesothelioma in Aug 2008, and after patiently and valiantly dealing with the treatments, pain, and loss of health, she was able to leave this world amidst an outpouring of love, song and words of comfort from her family and friends as all gathered to express their love and appreciation for the quiet but deep influence she had on their lives. Words cannot express how deeply Ruth was loved, but her testimony of and love for Jesus Christ burns brightly in the hearts of her husband, children, in-laws, and grandchildren and assures that her Spirit will always remain. “We love you, Ruth, and look faithfully forward to the day when we shall surely meet again.” There will be two viewings, one on Wednesday October 7th from 5 to 8 PM at the Hansen Funeral home at 8314 N 7th Street and the other on Thursday October 8th from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. at the LDS church on 3601 E Shea Blvd. The funeral will be held on Thursday, October 8th at 11 a.m. at the LDS church on 3601 E Shea Blvd. In celebration of her life, we respectfully request that attendees wear light colors to these events. Interment will follow at Hansen Memorial Garden at 6500 E. Bell Rd in Scottsdale.

A Peaceful Farewell

Mom went on to be with her loved ones early this morning. We had a very peaceful, love-filled evening together as a family---sitting quietly, singing, reminiscing and just being together. After she passed this morning, there is such an amazing spirit in this home-somthing that is hard to put into words. It is so peaceful. We are so grateful that she gave us each other and know that she will continue to watch over us. We are grateful for the love that has been shown by all of you--for your prayers, your kind words, and your love. Thank you. We will post again as soon as funeral plans are finalized.

Sunday Morning

We have treasured the past couple of days being together as family and being close to Mom. She has been sleeping most of the time with a few moments of being alert. She will give you a squeeze if you hold her hand --which I don't think has been let go of yet. She is comfortable and we continue to cherish the time we have. Words cannot express the appreciation and love we feel for all of you. We feel of your love and draw strength from your prayers. Thank you!

Precious Moments

We just wanted to put a quick update to let you know of Mom's status. She was admitted to the hospital yesterday morning when she came in for her regular appt. The past week she has continued to feel rotten and has felt worse each day. They put her on IV antibiotics thinking that it was more pneumonia. The lung Dr. came in today and confirmed that it is not pneumonia but that the cancer has spread to both lungs. Her left lung really isn't functioning at all and her right lung is full of inflammation from the cancer as well. He said that there really isn't anything else to do and they are sending her home tonight with hospice. They started giving her morphine which has helped with her comfort and they will continue to make her as comfortable as they can. Mom is still coherent and enjoying time with family. It is hard for her to talk very much because of the oxygen mask and she gets winded very easily. We appreciate so much all of the love and support that we feel and know that the Lord will continue to help us all through this difficult time. All of her children will be here by tonight and we will spend however long He gives us with her. The Dr. said it could be anywhere from hours to days. We are very sad to say good-bye but are ready for her to be at peace and be done suffering. It's been a very emotional day. We will try to keep you updated.