Mary L. Bowser

Mary L. Stiffler Bowser, 81 of Lincoln Drive, Bedford, died Saturday, March 16, 2013 at Altoona Regional Hospital.  She was born March 13, 1932 in Everett, daughter of the late Russell and Laura (Zimmerman) Sipes.  She was first married to William O. Stiffler, who preceded her in death on December 21, 1997, and her second husband, Jack S. Bower who preceded her in death on November 22, 2009.   She is survived by a son Dr. William M. Stiffler, married to the former Doris Hicks of Bedford and a daughter Carolyn wife of David Almond of Sanford, NC, a brother Richard Sipes and wife Judy of Chicago and five step-children; Janice wife of Russ Diers, Linda A. Bowser both of Tuscon, AZ, James R. Bowser married to the former Diane Klein of Cranberry Township, Lisa L. wife of Robert Young of Denver, PA, and Chad W. Bowser married to the former Brenda Elentrio of Landsdale, five grandchildren; Bryan, Christopher and Andrew Stiffler and Laura Jo and Bryce Love, eight step-grandchildren and two step-great grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by three sisters; Marjorie Wolf, Kathryn Sevill and Mabel Johnson, five brothers, Robert, Paul, George, Percy and Jack Sipes.

Mary graduated from Everett High School Class of 1949 and from Gregg Business School in Chicago, IL. She worked at Bedford County Department of Public Assistance for 47 years and she served on their Board of Directors. Mary was one of the longest term employees ever for the “Great” state of Pennsylvania.  She was a member of St. John’s UCC Church and was a former Sunday School Teacher.  She was a member of Altoona-Johnstown Tres Dias Community.  Mary had a strong faith and love of God. She enjoyed reading. She was affectionately known as Grandy and enjoyed  spoiling her grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday March 19, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Johns United Church of Christ, in Bedford, with Rev. Robert R. Robertson officiating. Burial at Bedford Cemetery.  Friends will be received today, Monday from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. at the Timothy A. Berkebile Funeral Home, in Bedford, and one hour prior to the service at the Church on Tuesday morning.  Those wishing, may make contributions to St. John’s UCC Church, 144 W. John St., Bedford, or Jonesboro United Methodist Church, 407 W. Main St., Sanford, NC 27330.  Our online guest book is available at www.berkebilefuneralhome.com.