Colleen E. Bowers was a loving daughter, friend, wife, mother and Gigi. Colleen was remarkable, unique, intelligent, creative and kind and loved her family, travel, her garden and photography. She passed away peacefully in the arms of her husband August 20, 2021 in Vero Beach, FL.

Colleen was born in Erie, PA on February 7, 1950, to Joseph L. Cochran and Geraldine A. (Bolan) Cochran. Her family moved to Akron, Ohio and raised five children. They were a very active family at Fairlawn Country Club. Colleen was an accomplished swimmer in synchronized and stroke. The water didn’t ripple as she swam. Colleen graduated from Firestone High School in 1968 and attended Akron University.

Colleen’s career was in the hospitality business. She was the most likable, never uttering a harsh word and was charitable in the most benevolent way. Colleen had the most gorgeous handwriting and her laughter could envelope you as it tumbled out of her. Her physical presence was distinctive. Colleen was an amazing listener and that made her a friend to many.

Colleen met Gary in Ohio in 1973 after returning home from a European tour with her little sister, Ellen. Colleen and Gary took in a Steve Miller concert and never looked back. Colleen resided in Highland Square, Akron Ohio and German Village, Columbus, Ohio before leaving for Phoenix, AZ. In 1980 Colleen and Gary married in Akron, OH. They welcomed Riley and Cali into the world as they started their family in Phoenix, AZ. Colleen’s father passed away in Vero Beach in 1986 and her siblings all decided to move to Florida and raise their children together.

Colleen and Gary became and remain parish members of Saint Helens Catholic Church. Raising their girls in this small town brought them to numerous sports events including t-ball, ballet, swimming, horseback riding, soccer, and lacrosse.

Left to cherish her memories are her loving husband of 41 years, Gary Bowers; daughters: Riley (Curtis) and Cali. Colleen was the proud Gigi of Ryder, Hazel, Emerson, Lachlan, Sophie and Carter and her furry friend, Barkley. Siblings: Kevin (Linda), Tom (Christine), Sheila (Mac), and numerous nieces, nephews, grand nieces, grand nephews, great grandnieces and great grandnephews that she loved and adored.

Following a private cremation, a Celebration of Life was held at Colleen’s daughter, Riley’s home in Vero Beach. A private casting ceremony was held in Ardmore, Ireland.
In remembrance, our family suggests that any who wish, make a donation in her name to a cause about which they are passionate about.

The Bowers family would like to thank everyone involved with Colleen’s care for the past several years.

Condolences may be shared online at www.millenniumcremationservice.com.