Joan Kay Bowen

Joan Bowen, formerly Joan Fossum, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2026, at the age of 85, surrounded by her family. She was born on September 18, 1940, in Grand Forks County to Leonard and Arlene Fossum.

Joan graduated from Grand Forks Central High School. After graduation, she moved to California to spend time with her beloved aunt, Tilly, and her cousin, Bev. While there, she worked for the Internal Revenue Service.

In 1962, Joan returned to Grand Forks for a visit, never knowing that the trip would change the course of her life. There, she met the love of her life, Jim Bowen. They were married in 1963 and built a life filled with family, friendship, love, and many cherished memories.

Joan and Jim shared many wonderful years together before Jim passed away in 1995. Joan

worked at Country Hearth Bread Store for 30 years, where she developed many lasting relationships. She continued to cherish the family and friendships she had built throughout her life.

Joan especially loved going to the lake, where she enjoyed relaxing, spending time with family and friends, and making memories. She was a wonderful cook and baker and had a special way of making people feel at home around her table. She also had a true gift for gardening. Her flower gardens were beautiful and reflected her love of nature, color, and beauty.

Joan will be remembered for her loving heart, warmth, devotion to her family, and the many memories she created throughout her life. She leaves behind a family and circle of friends who will forever carry her love and memory in their hearts.

She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Joan is survived by her children, Jeff Bowen, Dean Bowen, Dawn Bowen, and Nick Bowen; her daughter-in-law, Dawn Parr-Bowen; her grandchildren, Sydney Wiertzema, Dixon Bowen, and Ellie Bowen; and her great-grandchildren, Taylor and William.