West Branch, Iowa

Roberta M. Bowie, 82, passed away Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at Bickford Cottage, Iowa City.

Private family graveside services were held at North Liberty Cemetery near Springdale.

Roberta had a great love of flowers — both giving and receiving them. In lieu of flowers or traditional memorials, her family encourages you to honor her memory by sending flowers to someone you love, sharing the same joy and kindness she so freely gave to others.

Roberta May Bowie was born April 30, 1943, in Davenport, Iowa, the daughter of Henry and Dorothy (Spies) Kundel. She was a graduate of North Scott High School in Eldridge and later St. Luke’s School of Nursing in Davenport.

On March 30, 1968, Roberta was united in marriage to George E. Bowie in Eldridge, Iowa.

Following graduation from nursing school Roberta worked as a nurse for a few years, following the birth of her children; she became a stay-at-home mom and helped George with the family farm. She later was employed with Crestview Care Center in West Branch and also taught CNA classes.

Roberta had a deep and abiding love for her flowers and for the community she called home. Her garden was more than a pastime — it was an expression of her generosity, patience, and care. She spent countless joyful hours tending her flowers and working in her greenhouse, where she found both peace and purpose.

A faithful member of Springdale United Methodist Church, Roberta lived out her faith through service and fellowship. She was also an active and dedicated member of the Federated Garden Club, proudly holding leadership roles at both the local and state levels. Through her involvement, she shared her knowledge, encouraged others, and helped cultivate not only beautiful gardens, but lasting friendships throughout the community.

Roberta is survived by her three children: Patti Edge of West Branch, and her children, Kaitlyn and Brady; Barbara (Mike) Connolly of Mount Vernon, and their children, Cody and Karlyn; and Cliff Bowie of West Branch, and his daughter, Lucy. She is also survived by four sisters: Eljean (Leonard) LaFrenz; Mary Aitken of Bettendorf; Janet (Ken) Stottler of Henderson, Nevada; and Elaine Johnson of Brimfield, Illinois.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, George, in 2009; and a sister, Ruth Whan.