Barbara L. Bowers

Barbara L. Bowers (nee Kenski), age 83, of Copley, OH, passed away peacefully Saturday, July 19, 2025.

Barb was born on February 3, 1942, to Josephine and Leonard Kenski. She grew up on Hillman Avenue in the 55th and Broadway neighborhood of Cleveland with her 3 siblings, Timothy, Judith (Lambert), and Scott. Following her graduation from Our Lady of Lourdes High School, she married the charming boy next door, the love of her life, William “Bill” Bowers in 1961. Then began their legacy of love, laughter, family and fun.

Barb, known to many as “Nana” or “Tootsie”, was a dedicated wife, mother, sister, aunt, grandmother and friend. She was passionate about her role as a homemaker. She spent endless time caring for her children, grandchildren, husband, and many others over the years. Her love of family was paramount. She was young at heart, creative, and intuitive. Her quick wit never failed to make others laugh and her soft-natured questions turned strangers into friends.

She loved playing games like Scrabble and Words with Friends. She was a wordsmith, a talent she channeled into writing clever poems for friends and family on birthdays and holidays.

Barb, her sister Judy, and best friend Joan took many trips to Las Vegas to play the slot machines in hopes of finding a winner. You could often find her in the yard, keeping things tidy.

She loved music and dancing, especially the twist or polka. Her smile, energy, and hugs will be warmly missed.

Barbara was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 59 years, William Bowers. She is survived by her children and their families; Brian (Madeline Bigadza) Bowers and their son Zakhary, Bradley (Amy Griffith) Bowers and their children Kallen, Bennett and Natalie, and Barbie (Frank Zugaro) and their children Addyson and Hayley.

Celebration of Life will take place FRIDAY, September 5, 2025, at 2:00 PM at The Bath Church United Church of Christ, 3980 W. Bath Rd, Akron, OH 44333. Friends may call from 1:00 PM until the time of the service.

Services in care of the Billow Funeral Homes, Fairlawn Chapel, 85 N. Miller Rd. Fairlawn, OH 44333.