Marjorie A. Bowles

Marjorie Bowles, an example of love and selflessness, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2025, at the age of 82, at Holy Cross Village at Notre Dame, Indiana. Born on December 14, 1942, in Fosston, Minnesota, to the late Melvin and Clara (Heimarch) Dounley, Marjorie's life was a testament to her unwavering faith and boundless compassion.
Marjorie's educational journey was driven by a strong belief in the power of education and a desire to serve others. She earned her Nursing Degree and a Master's of Social Work. Her career as a nurse psychotherapist included time as a traveling nurse with the Flying Doctors, where she touched countless lives. Marjorie was deeply committed to stewardship and established her private practice to address women's issues, leaving a lasting legacy of care and kindness.
On October 9, 1965, Marjorie married the love of her life, John Bowles, in a beautiful ceremony in Crookston, Minnesota. Their union was one of mutual respect, deep affection, and shared adventures until John's passing. Marjorie's legacy of love continues through her daughter, Christine Derwent, her son-in-law Thomas Derwent and her cherished grandson, Alexander Derwent.
Marjorie's interests were as vibrant and varied as her personality. She was a lover of all people, embracing everyone she met with open arms and an open heart. Her artistic talent was evident in her watercolor paintings, which were as bright and joyful as her outlook on life. Marjorie's daily positive and encouraging messages, which reached over 400 people, were a source of inspiration for many. Her deep involvement in community outreach-from crafting blankets for the homeless to sending clothing to third-world countries-reflected her faith-filled and selfless nature.
Those who knew Marjorie will fondly remember her as Alec's 'Mimi,' a role she embraced with every ounce of her adventurous spirit. Her belief in angels and their protective presence was a cornerstone of her spirituality, and she lived each day with the conviction that she was guided and guarded from above. An avid traveler, Marjorie's sense of adventure took her to many corners of the world, and she often recounted tales of her explorations with sparkling eyes and infectious enthusiasm.
Marjorie and her husband John shared a passion for boating, spending countless hours on the water, basking in the serenity of nature and each other's companionship. Marjorie had a deep love for the outdoors, enjoying activities such as snowmobiling, skiing, and gardening. She cherished watching nature while sitting on her front porch, savoring the sundown with a glass of wine or in the kitchen baking up a batch of her delectable cookies. Her love for music was evident in her regular attendance at live events, especially at Fiddler's Hearth, where she was a familiar and beloved figure
In her life, Marjorie embodied the words of Mother Teresa, "Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love." This philosophy was the guiding principle of her existence, and it shone through in every act of kindness and every moment of connection she shared with the world.
A mass will be held for Marjorie Monday, June 16, 2025 at St. Mark Catholic Church beginning at 11 a.m., with a time of visitation an hour prior.
Those wishing to make a memorial donation in honor of Marjorie have been asked to consider Pet Refuge, 4626 S Burnett Dr, South Bend, IN 46614.
Photos, condolences and memories can be left for Marjorie's family at BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.
Marjorie Bowles will be remembered as a loving, faith-filled, and selfless woman whose impact on the lives she touched is immeasurable. Her spirit, a radiant light of love and service, will continue to inspire those who were blessed to know her. As we bid farewell to Marjorie, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a soul that will forever enrich the tapestry of our memories.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services.