Esther B. Bowin

CHELSEA—Esther B. Bowin, 84, died Monday, April 16, 2007, at her home. She was born July 21, 1922, in Tunbridge, the daughter of John and Florence (Burgess) Bicknell.

She attended school in Chelsea, graduating in 1940 from Chelsea High School. She also attended Johnson Normal School (now Johnson State College) in Johnson, where she received her three-year teaching degree. She later went back to Johnson, receiving a bachelor’s degree in 1975. She first taught in Chelsea and then in Royalton for a few years.

On November 8, 1947, she married Guy W. Bowin. They lived a few years in North Tunbridge, before moving to their farm in Chelsea. Together they ran their poultry farm and raised their children. He died December 26, 1973, and she later returned to teaching. She taught several years in Vershire before returning to teach in Chelsea. She retired in 1984.

She was a member of the United Church of Chelsea (serving as treasurer), the Do Your Best Club of Chelsea, Vt. Retired Teachers Association, secretary of the Orange County Farm Bureau, Chelsea Grange, Past Master of Tunbridge Grange, and Justin Morrill Pomona Grange. For many years, she was an auditor for the Town of Chelsea. She enjoyed cooking and doing latch-hook rugs. Her life revolved around her grandchildren, caring for and spoiling them.

Survivors include two sons: Jerald Bowin of South Burlington and Dennis Bowin of Windsor; three daughters, Peggy Ainsworth of South Royalton, Millie Knudsen and Gloria Bowin, both of Chelsea; eight grandchildren; a great-granddaughter; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was predeceased by her husband; an infant son, Irving Bowin; a brother, Almond Bicknell; and two sisters, Lendia Huckins and Hazel Mudgett.

Calling hours will be held Friday, April 20, 6-8 p.m. at the Boardway & Cilley Funeral Home on Main Street in Chelsea. A funeral service will be held Saturday, April 21, at 11 a.m. at the United Church of Chelsea, with the Rev. Diana Benjamin officiating. Burial will be later this spring in the Highland Cemetery in Chelsea.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to either the American Parkinson Disease Association, Vermont Chapter, 1 South Prospect Street, Burlington, Vt., or the United Church of Chelsea, in care of Ione Battles, Treasurer, P.O. Box 98, Chelsea, Vt., 05038.

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