Diane Marie Bowles

Diane Marie Bowles, 70, of Gales Ferry passed away on Monday, July 24, 2023, after a three year fight with pancreatic cancer.

She was born on March 13, 1953, in California, and was the daughter of the late Frank and Violet (Kyle) Ehrig.

Diane grew up in California and Colorado. She graduated from Benet Hill Academy and served in the US Coast Guard from 1974-1978. This is where she met her late husband, Stephen C. Bowles. Diane was especially proud of her time in the Coast Guard as she was part of the first group of women to ever be enlisted. She was honorably discharged from the service in an effort to continue her relationship with Stephen. It was a choice that she never regretted as she was happily married for 42 years, until Steve's passing, and had three children she adored and cherished.

Diane had many accomplishments, however if you asked her about herself, she would tell you about her children. She loved being a mother and was able to provide the most unconditional and supportive love and care imaginable. Diane was kindhearted, empathetic, and extremely nurturing with anyone she came into contact with. Everyone felt at ease confiding in Diane, friend or stranger, and her warmth will be missed by all.

She is survived by her children, Ian Bowles of Norwich, Cara Swan and husband Brandon of New London, and Eric Bowles of Norwich. She is also survived by her cousins, Margie Calhoun and Bill Kyle and many friends.

Burial with military honors will be held on Saturday, September 9, 2023, at 10:00 am at the State Veterans Cemetery, 317 Bow Lane, Middletown, CT 06457. A Celebration of Life will also be held the same day. In lieu of flowers, donations in Diane's memory can be made to: Smillow Cancer Center Waterford, Memo: Diane Bowles, Lawrence and Memorial Hospital, Office of Development, 365 Montauk Ave. New London CT 06320. The Cremation Society of CT in Windsor has care of the arrangements.