Shirlee M. Bowen

Passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, Sunday, January 4, 2026 at the age of 100 years.

Shirlee is survived by her two sons Marcus (Sue) Bowen and Rick Doyle. Seven grandchildren Bryce (Kaitlyn), Kyle, Adam, Patrick, Kelly (Brian), Colleen (Elias) and Shawn (Kim). Four great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by her beloved husband of 48 years, Ralph Irwin Bowen, her parents Richard L. and Gladys Carhart. Her daughter Sandy Silverman, daughter-in-law Juanita Doyle and her brothers Richard Carhart, who died in infancy and Robert Carhart.

Born on December 15, 1925, in Duluth, Minnesota, Shirlee moved with her parents to Joliet at a young age and remained deeply rooted in the community throughout her life. She was a proud graduate of Joliet Township High School, Class of 1943. While working at C & C Trucking, Shirlee met Irwin, the man who would become her husband and lifelong partner. She later worked as a secretary for F. W. Sickels and Joliet Fyr Fyters. Shirlee enjoyed a full life centered around family, laughter and the simple joys of time spent together. She especially loved bowling and was still proudly bowling in a league up until 2021. Shirlee and Irwin shared a love of the outdoors and spent many happy years camping together, creating lasting memories along the way.

Memorial services will be held at the Carlson-Holmquist-Sayles Funeral Home & Crematory, 2320 Black Rd., Saturday, January 10th at 11:00 A.M. Inurnment will be at Woodlawn Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers memorials to Suncrest Hospice will be appreciated.  Visitation will be held Saturday from 9:00 A.M. until time of services at 11:00 A.M.