Erma Belle (Smith) Bowatz

Erma B. Bowatz, age 90, of Kimball, died Thursday, May 10, 2018 at her home.

Memorial Services will be held 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 19, 2018 at the Kimball United Methodist Church with Rev. Ken Felska officiating. Burial will follow at Forest City Cemetery. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday at the church.

Erma Belle Bowatz was born November 8, 1927 in Watkins, Minnesota to Samuel and Mary (Hall) Smith. Erma grew up in the Watkins area and attended school in Dassel where she graduated with the Class of 1945. She went on to further her education by attending teacher college. On November 26, 1948 she was united in marriage to Oatman W. Bowatz in St. Cloud, Minnesota. She taught country school for a year before staying home to raise her boys and assist on the farm. As the boys got older, Erma began working for Butwin Sportswear Co. in Litchfield. She was a loyal employee there for 22 years. Erma was a longtime member of the Kimball United Methodist Church, where she taught Sunday school for many years. She was also a member of the Kimball American Legion Auxiliary. In her spare time, Erma enjoyed quilting, crocheting, needlework, and reading. In her younger years she liked to spend time on the golf course, as well as being on the lake fishing. Erma also enjoyed listening to religious and classical music. Erma will lovingly be remembered for her many treats she baked throughout the years. Above all, Erma treasured the time she was able to spend with her family.

Erma is survived by her sons, Michael (Judy) Bowatz of Becker and Tommy Bowatz of Kimball; grandchildren, Tina (Michael) Sliter and Kelly (Jeremy) Halvorson; 3 great grandchildren, Gage Sliter, Bryce & Emma Halvorson; and many nieces, nephews, other family members and friends. Erma was preceded in death by her parents, husband, six sisters, and 3 brothers.

Roger Hartneck, Kevin Smith, Donnie Hochstedler, Jan Johnson, Robbie Kuechle, Monty Hillmyer, and Paul Hillmyer will serve as urnbearers. Esther Marks and Sandy Brown will provide music for the service.

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