Linda Sue (Broeckling) Bower

Linda Bower was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, caregiver, and friend.

She left this world too soon on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at age 75.  She passed away peacefully in her home, surrounded by her husband and daughters.

 She was the first child born to Walter and Rita Broeckling on August 15, 1948, in Breeze, Illinois.  She grew up in New Baden, Illinois with her four sisters and three brothers.  She graduated from Wesclin High School in 1966.

 She married her husband Robert Bower on August 5, 1972.  They had two daughters, Rebecca and Amber.  The family moved to Illiopolis in 1979, where they remained. 

Linda had a great love for her own children and so many others.  She devoted over 35 years of her life to caring for other people’s children.  She had a hand in helping raise many children in this area, and she treated all of them as is they were one of her own. 

She had a “green thumb” and enjoyed spending time outdoors working in her yard.  She was a great animal lover as well, rescuing many cats, dogs, and even a rabbit.   

She was a long time member of the Illiopolis Resurrection Parrish.  She drew great comfort and strength from her faith, even in her final days and hours.

 Yet, above all else, Linda truly loved her family.  She and her husband were married for 51 years.  They had two daughters, whom she loved and adored.  And then when her four grandchildren came along, they were the absolute light of her life.  She cherished every moment with them!

 Linda is survived by her: husband, Robert L. Bower; daughter, Rebecca (Brad) Armstrong; daughter, Amber (Michael) Ayre; grandchildren, Brayden and Alexis Armstrong; grandchildren, Garrett and Harper Ayre; mother, Rita Broeckling of New Baden, IL; brother, Dennis (Linda) Broeckling of Salisbury, NC; sister, Donna (Randy)Felt of New Baden, IL; brother, Dean Broeckling of Mt. Vernon, IL; sister, Peggy (Curt) Wright of Mascoutah, IL; sister, Mary Blavesciunas of New Baden, IL; brother, Lonny Broeckling of New Baden, IL; and so many nieces, nephews, cousins, and various extended family.

Linda was proceeded in death by her father, Walter A.Broeckling; sister, Janet Flowers; brother-in-law, John Blavesciunas; parent-in-law, Robert and Mary Bower; sister-in-law, Martha Ramsey; sister-in-law, Sara Reid.

 Upon her death, it was discovered that Linda collected many quotes that captured moments of time in her life, gave her strength, and/or just had a special meaning.  So here is one last one just for her and for those who loved her:

 “If there ever comes a day when we can’t be together, keep me in your heart, I’ll stay there forever.”   - A.A. Milne

 Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 3, 2024, at Resurrection Parrish, 410 Anne Street, in Illiopolis, from 11:00AM until the time of the funeral service at 1:00PM.

Fullenwider-Park Funeral Home in Illiopolis is in charge of arrangements.

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