Mary Ellen Bowman, 98, Sweetser, passed away in her home at 7:16 pm on Sunday, July 27, 2025. She was born in Swayzee, Indiana, on Wednesday, December 1, 1926, to Earnest and Mable (Strausburg) Key.
Mary graduated from Swayzee in 1944. She was a member of Maple Run Friends Church. She and her first husband, Robert Wesley Roos, were wed on June 29, 1946. Together they shared 20 years of marriage and three children, Suzanne, Jennifer, and Christopher. After Robert's passing, Mary married Paul Arthur Bowman on June 5, 1969. Together they shared a son, Paul Andrew. Mary was a lifelong reader and learner. Her love for reading led her to work in the library at Swayzee Elementary School for 15 years. She loved her job and being with the kids. She truly was a people-person.
Survivors include her children, Suzanne (John) Ladd of Marion, Jennifer St. Jean of Oakville, Ontario, Christopher (Lou Ann) Roos of Crossville, TN, and Paul Andrew "Andy" (Amanda) Bowman of Van Buren; 13 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded by her parents; husbands, Robert Roos and Paul Bowman; and 7 siblings.
The family will receive visitors from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
Immediately following the time of visitation, a service to celebrate Mary's life will begin at 1:00 pm with Pastor John Key officiating. Burial will take place at Thrailkill Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Maple Run Friends Church, 4460 W. 400 S., Marion, IN 46953.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
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