Obituary of Marianne Adeline Fowler

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Marianne Fowler, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. Marianne passed away peacefully in Regina on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at the age of 81.

Born on June 6, 1943, in Lampman, SK, Marianne was the cherished daughter of Adeline and the late John Wingert. She grew up in a close-knit family, sharing a deep bond with her sisters Bev Lobe, Linda Grimm, Sharon Strand, and Anna Wingert. Marianne’s warmth and gentle nature would become the hallmarks of her life.

Marianne met her devoted husband William “Bill” Fowler in 1964, and they married in July the next year. They enjoyed 59 wonderful years together, building a life filled with adventures, laughter and a zest for life. Together, they raised four children: daughter Dawn Barker (children Victoria, Sarah Elizabeth and Michael, and Michael’s fiancée Danielle), son Bob Fowler (children Johanna and Jessie), daughter Sarah Jean Fowler (children Xochipilli, Citlalli and Xoco) and son Jim Fowler. In 2009, they became great grandparents when Sarah Elizabeth had a son, Elijah. Grandparenthood and great-grandparenthood suited Marianne to a “T”, and she spent many happy hours spoiling “her kids” lavishly, baking with them, taking them to swimming lessons, and just spending time with them. Other special family members included Lorriane Snell (Remi Cote) and Jim Fodey, who lived with them as teens. Lorraine and Jim surpassed the bounds of friendship to become true family.

Marianne was predeceased by her father John; sisters Bev and Linda; brother-in-law Richard Grimm; special Aunt and Uncle Mary and John Miller; brother-in-law Richard Fowler; nephew Nicholas Fowler; parents-in-law Jeanne and Dick Fowler; and her son Jim, whose memory she held close to her heart.

Marianne had a special place in her heart for animals, particularly her son Jim’s dachshund, Waldo, who became a cherished companion for her and Bill after Jim’s passing.

A culinary artist in her own right, Marianne’s kitchen was a place of love and indulgence, where the aromas of her cooking rivaled the expertise of Julia Child herself. Family and friends were always welcomed at her table. Marianne was also a dedicated gardener, earning the affectionate nickname "Thistle Annie" from her late father-in-law, Dick Fowler. Her gardens flourished under her care, providing not only beauty but also bountiful harvests she loved to share.

Always up for an adventure with Bill at her side, she moved in the 70s from the city to a small acreage in Lemberg – which became the “family homestead” and the source of many family lore stories. Charging in without experience to raising cattle, goats, pigs, chickens, ducks, bees and many other critters, Marianne took all of the escapades in stride. In time, she joined the Lemberg School Division (later North Valley) and became an essential part of the lives of many of the area’s young people. So many have reached out to us with their wonderful memories of “Mrs. Fowler”.

Marianne’s career in education was simply extraordinary. She found joy and purpose in teaching others. Her passion for learning continued into her retirement, where she embraced technology with enthusiasm, becoming the first in the family to conquer the mysteries of computers.

After retirement, she and Bill journeyed annually to their little piece of paradise in Wauchula, Florida, where she spent her sunny winter days surrounded by friends, of which she had so many. Marianne’s keen mind and engaging sense of humour always attracted people.

Marianne’s life was marked by her steadfast devotion to her family and her community. Her quiet strength, her gentle spirit, and her boundless generosity left a lasting impact on all who knew her. She is survived by her husband Bill; mother Adeline; sisters Sharon and Anna; her children, grandchildren and great-grandchild; many nieces, nephews, and extended family members; and a wide circle of friends who became like family.

Marianne’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her. A Celebration of her Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, do something to “pay it forward” in honor of Marianne’s legacy of giving and kindness. She would have done the same. She always did.

Rest gently, Marianne. You will be missed so much.