Wilma Rowell, 86, of Kalkaska died on Jul 8, at Munson Medical Center.
Wilma was a lifelong resident of Kalkaska. She graduated from Kalkaska High School in 1938 and attended Michigan State University. Wilma then decided to enroll at Hurley Hospital School of Nursing in Flint. She graduated in 1943 and immediately joined the US Navy Nurse Corps.
Wilma married Wilson "Wink" Rowell in 1949 and became actively involved with the newspaper, the Leader and the Kalkaskian, as business manager, at the same time continuing wit her nursing career. She was a Red Cross nurse and taught some classes. She worked in public health and lastly was employed as a supervisor at Traverse City Regional Psychiatric Hospital.
Wilma and Wink were honored as 1976 Citizens of the Year by the community. As partners and very close associated in business and community service, they were honored together. It was the first time an award was given to two recipients for the same year.
Wilma always loved all children and especially enjoyed her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She taught preschoolers Sunday School for many years.
She was a member of the People's Church, and a life member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the VFW and the American Legion.
Wilma was the daughter of William James Yager and Lola Davis Yager. Wilma's father died in WWI and her mother passed away in 1978. Wink also preceded Wilma in death in Apr 1997.
Survivors include her two sons, Mark Rowell of Kalkaska and John (Gloria) Rowell of Reed City; daughter, Rebecca (Gary) Swanson of Manton; eight grandchildren, Jason, Jack, and Regina Rowell, Heather Green, Spencer Rowell, Dillon Rowell, Bradley and Kyle Swanson; three great granddaughters, Harley and Shelby Green and Brynn Rowell; and three great grandsons, Scott Thomas Green, Brennen Tyler Rowell, and Cole Mitchell Rowell.
A memorial service honoring Wilma's life will be held on Sat, Jul 30 at 1 pm at the People's Church in Kalkaska. Pastor Robert Stark from the Kalkaska United Methodist Church and Pastor Robert Lanning from Rollins Christian Fellowship Church will be officiating.
