James A. Fowler

James A. Fowler, 88, passed away on Sunday, October 2, 2011, at VNA Charlier Hospice Center, surrounded by his family. He was born in Spurgeon, IN, on May 8, 1923, to Normal and Ruth Fowler. He was married for 58 years to Emilyann (Combs) Fowler, who preceded him in death in 2009. He is survived by their five children, Catherine (Dennis) Renner, Diane Fowler, Susan Fowler, Sarah (Mark) Aiton and David (Donna) Fowler; grandchildren, Kate (Alex) Fulton, Elizabeth Sickman, Amanda and Kyle Aiton; step-grandchildren, David Renner, Brandon Renner, Brigitte (Ryan) Ruth, Brittany Verville, Amanda (Calvin) Lundy and Andrea Grewe; great-grandchildren, Victoria Fulton, Lillian Siebers, Addison Verville, Ava Brookens; sister, Aline Pate; nephews, Jeff (Tina) Pate, Brad (Cindy) Pate, Jon Fowler; and his beloved dog, Nell.

He graduated from Evansville College in 1950 and received his MBA from the University of Evansville in 1972. He served in the US Army during World War II. His career began as a teacher at Bosse High School, then on to Burch Plow Works and he retired from Mead Johnson/Bristol Myers after 33 years.

James truly was a “faithful servant” with his life-long service to others. He dedicated his life to his family, friends, church and community. He was involved in over 60 years of service with the United Methodist Conference and specifically to Trinity United Methodist Church. For over 35 years he served as the Republican Precinct Committee Chairman for the Vanderburgh County Election Board.

His passion for serving others was illustrated by his participation on boards, committees and volunteering for Habitat for Humanity, United Methodist Youth Home and Santa Claus Campground. He lived the Habitat Motto, “Love is something you do,” by his long time participation with the Habitat “Wednesday Crew.”

James was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Bill Fowler.

The family would like to thank Doctor (and friend) Tony Stephens and the OHA staff for enhancing their dad’s “quality of life” these past eight years.

Services will be 11:00 AM Thursday, October 6, 2011, at Trinity United Methodist Church, 215 SE Third Street, officiated by Rev. Al Amstutz, with burial in Oak Hill Cemetery. Friends may visit Wednesday from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at Alexander East Chapel, 2115 Lincoln Avenue, and Thursday from 10:00 AM until service time at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church, 215 SE Third Street, Evansville, IN 47713; Habitat of Evansville, 1401 North Fares Avenue, Evansville, IN 47711; or United Methodist Youth Home, 2521 North Burkhardt Avenue, Evansville, IN 47715.