Carlyn Helene Bowman Gunnell

Carlyn Helene Bowman Gunnell lived a life filled with blessings.

Born April 29, 1943, she was adored by her parents Web and Helen Bowman and was looked upon as a rose by her four brothers, Dick, Dan, Herb and Darrell.

Carlyn was very happy living in Sidney, Ohio where she graduated from SHS, made lifelong cherished friendships, met the love of her life, David Gunnell, and thrived raising their five children: Greg, Susan, Mark, Lisa, and Christine.

Family and friends were very important to Carlyn and David, who loved planning shared and special experiences. They cherished their relationships with Greg's son Nathan and his daughters, Taryn and Jadyn; Susan's children Chloe, Max and stepson Torrey; Mark's daughters Casey, Taylor, and stepson Kayden; and Lisa's children Samantha, David (DJ), and stepchildren Ashley and Bobby. Carlyn was openhearted to all and was a good friend who kept her many friends close to her heart.

Carlyn was a devout Lutheran, a patient teacher, a master craftsman of varied arts, a great cook and hostess, a horse woman, an accomplished gardener, an interior designer, a boat enthusiast, and an altruistic philanthropist. Her easy-going nature and her passion for friends, family, nature, and life made her a joy to be around.

The only place Carlyn loved more than Sidney was Crystal River, Florida. During their years in Crystal River, Carlyn enjoyed countless happy times on the river, in the community, and with her many exceptional friends and neighbors.

When David passed in 2021, Carlyn was heartbroken but as always, remained strong, resilient, and optimistic.

Carlyn's beloved home in Crystal River was flooded by Hurricane Helene in September 2024. Ever grateful, her life continued to be exceptionally rich with the support of family and friends. Many unexpected blessings, beauties and graces have been shared. Carlyn was in Hawaii surrounded by loving family members when she went back to God on February 25, 2025, at the age of 81. Carlyn was sincerely loved and will be deeply missed; she will never be forgotten and lives on in the hearts and memories of all who knew her.

Per her wishes, Carlyn will be laid to rest at Graceland Cemetery in Sidney, Ohio alongside David and Christine who preceded her in death, at a private family graveside service.

In honor of Carlyn, please perform acts of kindness and generosity with her in mind.