Carl Bowles

Carl Gaylord Bowles, 87, of Ovid, MI, passed away Monday, October 2, 2017, at Ashley Care Center, Ashley, MI.

Per Carl's request, cremation has taken place and no services will be held.

Carl was born in Antrim Township, MI on September 12, 1930, the son of Walter and Laura (Main) Bowles.  He graduated from Morrice High School with the class of 1947. Carl married Ellie Malachowski on October 6, 1951, at St. Paul's Catholic Church, Owosso, MI. They would have celebrated 66 years of marriage Friday.

Carl was a lifelong dairy farmer, providing for his family on their 250 acre "Win Bailey Acres Farm" in Shepardsville, MI. He was an enthusiast of sports, and was a member of the Philadelphia Phillies Farm System. Carl was an avid hunter and fisherman as a young adult. He enjoyed playing cards with his friends, golfing and bowling. Carl played organized slow pitch softball into his mid 80's and won the National Championship and World Series many times in St. George, Utah and Chattanooga, Tennessee. He was a member of the ZCBJ Lodge #225, Bannister, MI, St. Cyril's Catholic Church, Bannister, and Knights of Columbus in Bannister. Carl enjoyed polka dancing and watching his children's and grandchildren's sporting events.

He is survived by his wife Ellie, 5 children; Michael, Dan, Randy, Jayme and Kurt Kristin, and Ray, 9 grandchildren, and 1 great granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.

Memorials may be made to Bannister ZCBJ Lodge #225. Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes - Houghton Chapel, Ovid, MI.