Mary Ruth Bower

Mary Ruth Bower, 76, of Milton, IA passed away on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at the Van Buren County Hospital in Keosauqua, IA. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 24, 2025, at the Sunnyside Cemetery in Milton, IA. Memorial contributions in Mary's honor may be directed to an animal shelter of the donor's choice in honor of Mary's love for animals. Friends may leave online condolences at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com.

Mary Ruth Bower entered this life on October 17, 1948, in California, the daughter of Claiborne and Grace Wieland Trumbly. She attended and graduated from high school in California before moving to Iowa where she went to school for nursing. Mary was the proud mother of 6 boys and found this to be her full-time job. During this time the family lived in several different states. In the early 90's Mary met Jerry Bower in Valentine, NE. The two became husband and wife on July 3, 1996, and would remain by each other's side for the next 28 years. Mary and Jerry lived in Nebraska for most of their married life. With Jerry's retirement they recently moved back to Milton so Mary could be closer to her family. It was a blessing to be close to family, even if it was just a short time. Mary was a talented seamstress, often making clothes and stuffed animals for her family. She was a wonderful cook, and she had a special place in her heart for animals. Family was the most important thing in Mary's life. She enjoyed every minute that she was able to visit with family on the phone or in person. Her presence will be deeply missed.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Vernon Trumbly.

Left to share her story is her husband, Jerry Bower of Milton, IA; six sons, Harold McCann of Milton, IA, Hank (Fawn) McCann of Milton, IA, Heath (Lois) McCann of Valentine, NE, Justin (Diane) McCann of Manassas, Virginia, Simon (Karey) Boyd of Keokuk, IA and Zachary (Wendy) Boyd of Milton, IA; eighteen grandchildren and ten great grandchildren; two siblings, Loreen (Ed) Byrd and Wayne (Kathy) Trumbly as well as many extended family and friends.