Penelope M. “Penny” Bowers, 84

ORRVILLE — Penelope M. “Penny” Bowers, age 84, of Orrville, passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, March 7, 2025, surrounded by her loving family, following a brief period of declining health.

Born on July 2, 1940, in Wadsworth, Ohio, Penny was the daughter of Daniel and Beuhla (Shelt) Kratchen. She grew up in Orrville and graduated from Orrville High School with the Class of 1958. On November 25, 1960, she married the love of her life, James Eugene Bowers, at a ceremony in Orrville. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love, family, and cherished memories until Jim’s’ passing on June 29, 2018.

Throughout her life, Penny wore many hats, working in various positions for local businesses. One of her favorite roles was at Riceland Golf Course, where she especially enjoyed catering events and connecting with the community through Aultman Orrville Hospital as a “Pink Lady”.

Penny had a deep love for her hometown and its history. She was a longtime member of Orrville Christian Church, where her faith guided her life and inspired those around her. She was also actively involved in the Mother’s Study Club and the Orrville Railroad Heritage Society. She spent countless hours collecting and preserving historical photos and news clippings, ensuring that the stories of the past were not forgotten.

Beyond her community involvement, Penny’s greatest joy came from her family. She delighted in spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, rarely missing an opportunity to attend their activities or celebrate their milestones. Whether it was a sporting/school event, or family gathering, Penny’s proud and loving spirit always shined brightest when she was surrounded by those she held dear. She also loved to travel and read, always eager to experience new places or get lost in the pages of a good book.

Penny is survived by her four sons, Jim (Regina) Bowers of Wooster, Mitch (Pam) Bowers of Centerville, Todd (Aimee) Bowers of Orrville, and Alan (Kelly) Bowers of Bonita Springs, FL. She also leaves behind thirteen beloved grandchildren: Hallie (Sean) Brown of Orrville, Adam (Michal) Bowers of Orrville, Eric (Catherine Chew) Bowers of West Salem, Brittany (Tyler) LaFave of Barboursville, WV, Tiffany (Rob) Moeller of Edmond, OK, Brandon (Ashley) Bowers of Centerville, Drew Bowers of Fruita, CO, Madalyn (Dan) Kipfer of Orrville, Leo (Yoselyn) Bowers of Mt. Holly, NJ, Jake (Brittany) Leonard of Ft. Myers, FL, Shelby Leonard of Ft. Myers, FL, Luke (Amila) Smith of Salt Lake City, UT, and Allison Smith of Salt Lake City, UT; sixteen great-grandchildren: Ayden, Alydia, and Ashton Brown, Audriana, Cameron, and Ayla LaFave, Jossi Bowers, Clayton Chew, Emberlyn Bowers, Raelynn Moeller, Jane and Sophie Bowers, Whitt and Sophia Kipfer, Hudson Leonard, and Aviana Mendivil; and her sister, Paula (Paul) Kulbaga of Dothan, AL.

A service celebrating Penny’s life will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, March 14, 2025, at Orrville Christian Church, 925 North Elm Street, Orrville, with Pastor Tom Ledford officiating. Following the service, friends are invited to gather from 11:45 am to 1:00 pm at the church for a time of fellowship and sharing memories.

Inurnment of cremated remains will take place at Crown Hill Cemetery in Orrville at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Ohio’s Hospice LifeCare, 1900 Akron Road, Wooster, OH 44691, at www.lifecarehospice.org/give, or to Orrville Christian Church, 925 North Elm Street, Orrville, OH 44667, at www.orrville.church.

Arrangements are being handled by Auble Funeral Home in Orrville. Online condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.aublefuneralhome.com.