A Great Man – A Great Landowner – A Founding Member
January 10, 1951-August 7, 2024
William Merle Lloyd Bowes passed away on August 7, 2024 at the age of 73 at home in Mississippi Mills, Ontario. Merle was a deeply beloved father, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. After enduring a long battle with serious health issues, Merle passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. Born on January 10, 1951 in Arnprior, Merle grew up on his family farm in Kinburn, Ontario with parents Campbell and Mildred Bowes, and sisters, Iris and Audrey. After graduating Arnprior District Highschool in 1970 he worked for CN while continuing to operate the family farm in Kinburn. He married Ruth Bowes in 1978 and they shared a lifelong journey filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Alongside Ruth, Merle was a devoted father to Elaine, Barbara, Donald, and Stuart. Merle, Ruth, and their children moved to Mississippi Mills in 1991, and shortly afterwards he established a new family farm, Limekiln Gardens. Throughout his life, Merle remained deeply connected to his roots as a farmer, a vocation that shaped his strong
work ethic and love for the land. Merle was preceded in death by his mother, father, aunts, and uncles. He is survived by his wife and mother of his children, Ruth Bowes; their children: Elaine Bowes, Barbara Bowes (husband John Glauser), Donald Bowes (wife Lisa Bowes), and Stuart Bowes; five grandchildren: Aubree, Bentley, Fiona, Bridget, and Dax; sisters: Iris Smith (husband Ron Smith) and Audrey Bowes-Schmidt (husband John Schmidt); and many close friends.
Merle will be remembered for his wisdom, strength, loyalty, and independent spirit. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. May he rest in peace.