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Me parece que fue ayer que Sherin partio de este mundo, y pienso que esta en uno mejor pero es dificil aceptarlo, siempre esta en mi pensamiento y en mi corazon esta gran mujer !! Mi carino, respeto y admiracion para su familia siempre.!

I’m sorry for your loss. As part of a marketing campiagn, Mrs. Bowen was listed as owner of a 2000 Jeep and was sent a letter. Bob Bowen wrote me a personal note on the letter to honor Mrs. Bowens life by visiting this site. I did. I read. I can relate as I lost a brother in-law in the blink of an eye. His daughter was 3 months old, my god-daughter is now 11 and is all “Bill” he would be so proud. Your site is touching and inspiring, a permanent record of a heart wrenching situation. Thank you Bob, for inviting me to your memorial site. The world lost a fine soul, but her legacy surely is carried on by her children and family.

Dear Bob & family,
It was such a pleasure to see you, Bob, at the recent Abbotsford Class Reunion, & to have a chance to visit some. As you can see, we went to the website that you wrote on the back of a business card & found all this information. We were shocked when you told us a little about Sherin having an accident that claimed her life, but now know more details. We are so sorry for your loss!!! Words don’t seem adequate to express one’s feelings for your grief, but just know how much good Sherin & you accomplished together, & how much you both are loved.

Love, Bev & Neal

P.S. Please stay in touch, Bob.

Querida Sherin: Como pasan los años ! pero el Legado que dejastes no sera olvidado, estoy confiada en los sentimientos y una gran esperanza para que siempre tengamos personas que puedan lograr la diferencia tan ansiada en pro de los mas desposeidos; y que los dirigentes sean personas sin egoismo para un desarrollo generalizado.

Siempre en mi corazon, Leo.

Dear Bowen Family,

Thank you for the email you sent yesterday on the anniversary of Sherin’s undoubtedly grand entrance into heaven. Although there was of course sadness in remembrances, I also had to smile when I thought of the joyous welcome she must have received from God and the Angels that day.

Just wanted to let you know that my family and I are thinking of you. We have a picture of Sherin (and with Bob, Andy, and I) on our fridge that was taken when I was pregnant with Lilia. Lilia enjoys naming everyone in the photo (including herself), and Ruthie can also manage a version of “Sherin”, though her “Bob” comes out loud and clear.

Our love to you all,
Nikki (Wolensky)

As a student at UWSP in the early-mid 90s, I volunteered at the WI-Nicaragua Partners office. Sherin was such a delight, and as a young woman I admired her enthusiasm and her zeal not only for really living life but for really helping people. She was so grateful and so gracious, and I have remembered her fondly over the years. There was a lot I did not know about Sherin, as we spent perhaps only 40 hours together, but by coincidence I now raise sheep, spin wool, and do a bit of weaving. I think she’d get a kick out of that. What a great lady, what a tragic loss . . . but what an amazing contribution she made to the lives of so many.

I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I volunteered at the WI/Nicaragua Partners office in Stevens Point for a few years, and Sherin was such a wonderful person. My experience with her was an inspiration, and has played a large role in the path I took in my life. I will always remember her smile and will carry the lessons she taught me near to my heart. She taught me so much that I will use with my family, my career and with every relationship I establish. I will never forget. God bless.

Shannon Hext

i kwoing at sherin in esteli nicaragua iwant my sincerely salutation for the lost sherin
god is whit her.
armand tel 5057132785

Recuerdo aquellos momentos,
que tan felices pasamos
En los que tu me decias,
ya juntos toda la vida
Maldita sea la gracia,
es muy injusta la vida
Ahora sola me quedo yo,
sin rumbo y sin tus caricias.
No me digas por favor
Que no vuelvo a verte
Pues para mi la vida no es vida
Si tu no estas junto a mi
No me digas por favor
Que no vuelvo a verte
Pues para mi la vida no es vida
Si tu no estas junto a mi
No me digas por favor
Que no vuelvo a verte
Pues para mi la vida no es vida
Si tu no estas junto a mi
Oyeme

May God Bless you in this time of sorrow and my best wishes and prayers to you and your loved ones.

Sherin always treated me like a brother, so I’ll miss her a lot. She was a dedicated servant to us, and loved the people of Nicaragua no less than others of her family, and gave her life’s energy to serving others before herself. Con mucho agradecimiento, y como el versiculo dice en la Biblia, Jeremias 31:3: Yo te he amado con amor eterno. Art Angove, past president of WNP, chr. New Berlin/Jinotega.

Sherin will be an inspiration to many, many people…. and for countless years to come.

La familia Vargas Hudiel de Esteli Nicargua,les envia sus mas siceras condolencias por la pérdida irreparable de nuestra querida y muy apreciada amiga Sherin.
Por sus grandes obras y proyectos para con nuestras comunidades sera recordada pero sobre todo por su calidez y entrega e inigualable dedicacion para la niñez. Siempre la llevaremos en nuestro corazon sobre todo aquellos que tuvimos la dicha de trabajar cerca de ella y con lo cual su legado quedara vivo por todas sus enseñanzas.
Que Nuestro Señor los llene de fortaleza para superar su pérdida y les Bendiga.

Thanks for sharing information about your dear Sherin. Also for the lovely memorial service. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with you. Especially as Amy resumes her role in the work that Sherin began. Love to all, Nell and Jim

Mis mas sinceras condolencias para Amy y sus demas familiares. Amy pido a Dios que te de fuerza para soportar el dolor que sientes en tu corazon. Aunque ella no era mi verdadera madre, siento la perdida de ella. Recuerdo cuando estuvimos en VOICE que por medio de la computadora de lla nos enseño las fotos de su familia y sus hijos. Sus palabras me motivaron mucho. Ella lucho poe sus mujeres Chica Nica y Centros de Aprendizaje con ese espiritu amoroso y cariñoso de ayudar a los demas. Ella es un ejemplo en la vida, aunque no este fisicamentem lo estara espiritualmente para siempre en todas nosotras.

Oracion:

Una lagrima por los difuntos se evapora. Una flor sobre su tumba se marchita. Una oracion por su alma la recoge Dios.
Señor, nos la disteis para nuestra felicidad, nos la quitasteis y os lo concederemos con el corazon destrozado de dolor..asi sea.

Ana Julia Flores, Chiquilistagua- Nicaragua

Para Sherin donde quiera que se encuentre. Yo se que donde se encuentra ella escuchara mis mas sincero cariño que ambas tuvimos. El dolor que sientes Amy lo siento yo en mi corazon. Todas las noches le rezo una oracion que mi papa Dios me la tenga en su santo lugar.
Donde ella se encuentre yo se que estara al lado de todas sus mujeres, ella sabe que la adoramos y siempre estara en nuestros corazones.
Karla Flores, Chiquilistagua, Nicaragua

Dejas un vacio, pero a la vez lo llenas con recuerdos porque siempre estaras en nuestros corazones tejiendo amor y esperanza.
Sandra, Managua – Nicaragua

Reciban nuestras condolencias de parte del Centro Manos Solidarias para quienes Sherin fue su gran apoyo y le sirvio de estimulo dandoles muestras de compañerismo y solidaridad. Cada amistad siempre se conserva, una mano siempre se tiende y en el pensamiento siempre se guarda.
Rodriguez, Directora del Centro de Aprendizaje Manos Solidarias, Managua- Nicaragua

Para Bob y Amy

Siento mucho la perdida de Sherin porque ella era una persona que se esforzo mucho por ayudar en nuestro pais especialmente en todos los Centros de Aprendizaje. Lucho para que salieramos adelente y hasta dio la vida. Era una persona alegre que le gustaba ayudar y aqui siempre la vamos a recordar. Vamos a orar por ella para que Dios la tenga en el cielo. Bob y Amy, los acompaño en su dolor porque yo se que estan sufriendo mucho ustedes y toda su familia, sus hijos y nietos. Que Dios les de mucha fuerza y valor y sigan adelante.
Lea Gomez, Nicaragua

Conoci a Sherin por medio de las enseñanzas con los tejidos de 2 agujas ya que ella tenia la gran ilusion de que todas las mujeres arepndieramos a tejar con 2 agujas para formar el proyecto de Shawls. Yo aprendi como hacer los Shawls y las bufandas. Era un persona muy amable y buscaba que las mujeres de los centros cambiaran su situacion economica.
Queria que nos superaramos como mujer en todos los aspectos. Con el Proyecto VOICE ella lucho para que vencieramos el miedo y lo logro. Sherin fue una gran amiga de las mujeres de Nicaragua y estamos muy agradecida.
Sherin, viviras para siempre en el corazon de las mujeres de Los Cedros.

Ach, sie haben eine gute Frau begraben
und uns war sie mehr….
]
Dear Bob,
although Sherin touched our lives only briefly, we are deeply shocked about the news of her death. We will remember her fondly !
The inspiration she passed on to us will stay for as long as I live.
RIP
Angela in Munich

En nombre de la Comunidad de Las lagunea extendemos nuestro máas sentido péesame a familiares de la señora sherin. La recordaremos siempre como ena persona que le gustaba mucho eyudar a las personas pobres de Nicaragua en especial a nuestra pequeña Comunidad, savemos que eela tenía un gren corazon para ayudar, departe de ella nuestra comunidad rcibió muchas donaciones que se utizaronen personas que más necesitaban, para nosotros es una pérdida grande porque era una gran amiga que daba sin esperar nada a cambio. Vivirá por siempre en nuestros corazones.

On behalf of the Commonwealth of The Lagunea, we extend our greatest sympathies to the family of señora Sherin. We will always remember how she loved and helped the poor people in Nicaragua, especially our small community, we know that she had a great heart to help, through her our community received many donations that are used by those who need it most, for us this is a great loss because she was a great friend who gave without expecting anything in return. She live forever in our hearts.

I extend my deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Sherin Bowen. Her passing is mourned across our state and all of Nicaragua. When I traveled to Nicaragua in 2007 with a delegation from Wisconsin’s National Guard, I began to understand the breadth of her impact on the second-poorest country in our hemisphere. Sherin clearly had taken full measure of the desperate need there, and her vision to respond to that need drove a full and creative program that is a model for sister state relationship. Sherin represented the very best of citizen diplomats, developing trusting relationships to strengthen ties between our countries and attracting new resources to the Partnership. She was simply an irrepressible force here and abroad, and an inspiration to us all with her model of determined service. The world has lost an important leader.
Barbara Lawton
Lieutenant Governor

Estimada Amy y Familia;

Nuestra Querida Sherin permanecera en nuestros
corazones y en cada recuerdo de su noble entrega por mejorar las condiciones de vida de muchas personas. Su espiritu permanecera en la sonrisa de las personas con las que compartio su inmenza bondad.

Our Dear Sherin will forever remain in our hearts and in every memory of her noble service by improving the living conditions of many people. Her spirit will remain in the smiles of the people with whom she shared her immense goodness.

Betty Galvez- El Salvador

Dear Bob and Family

I was so shocked to hear of the untimely death of such a beautiful person, wife and mother Sherin. Over the past few days wonderful memories of your inspiring visits to London have flooded through my mind, and made me realise just how close I felt to you and Sherin. You always spoke so proudly of Sherin’s incredible exploits, and reading her autobiography on your website has confirmed my total admiration for a life so unselfishly devoted to serving others.
At this most difficult time my thoughts go out you and all your family, but I know that the inspirational memories of a most remarkable woman will help you to endure this tragic loss.

Sam

The Bowen family outdid themselves at the memorial service commemorating Sherin’s life. It was a beautiful tribute to an unique woman. Every parent would be proud to have such talented and creative offspring. We are comforted that Sherin’s lifework will continue.

Espero que el mensaje de la cancion sea de <bendicion para todos.

Crystal Lewis – My Redeemer Lives:

For I know my redeemer lives
And in the end He will stand on the earth
For I know my redeemer lives
And in the end He will reign on the earth

Though my flesh it be destroyed
Yet with my eyes I will see God

For I know my redeemer lives
And I will stand with Him on that day
For I know my redeemer lives
And I will stand with Him on that day

Oh my heart it yearns within me
For the day when Jesus returns
Oh my heart it yearns within me
For the day when Jesus shall reign

Though my flesh it be destroyed
Yet with my eyes I will see God

For I know that my redeemer lives
And I will stand with Him on that day
For I know that my redeemer lives
And I will stand with Him on that day

My heart goes out to all of of you. What a joy that we can communicate from across the globe to offer comfort to one another! I see some former 4Hers from Casimer Boosters have posted – we are just a very small representation of the many lives Sherin has touched during our young, formative years. Through her world-view, Sherin broadened the minds of many children. Like the others, the memories of my 4H years are some of my fondest as well.

God grant peace to all in the days ahead.

Valerie (Kurtenbach) Gallagher

Dear Bryan, Nancy and Family, Mari and I are deeply saddened at the loss of your mother. We did not know your mother. After reading her biography and comments from so many people we are really touched by this remarable women. She was not only a great mother she was a great human being She left this world doing what she loved most. Our deepest condodelces. You are in our thoghts and prayers.

nunca estaran solo Jesus esta con odos ustedes y con nosotros
you will never be alone for Jesus is with you and with us

Karla Y Noel

Dear Bowen Family and Extended W/NP Family,

I am terribly sorry for your loss. Sherin was a very special woman, and I admired her greatly. My deepest sympathies are with you.

When I heard the news of Sherin’s accident and passing, I was overcome with shock and a sense of loss. I am still having trouble processing the fact that this dynamic woman is gone. I traveled to Nicaragua once with W/NP, and throughout the trip I was impressed with Sherin’s total dedication and commitment to the Partnership. She was so knowledgeable, fair, and compassionate. And even though I was just a “rookie,” she was concerned that I have a meaningful trip. I will never forget her singling me out and asking for my initial impressions of Nicaragua and the Nicaraguans. Why should she care about what I thought? That’s just the kind of person she was. She could see the whole picture, but she never overlooked any individual person or thing. She will be missed, but she will never be forgotten, and her inspiration will go on forever. Rita Bloom, Pine River, WI

Estimada Amy, recibe de parte de mi familia nuestras mas sinceras Condolencias, se por los momentos de dolor que estas pasando y tene seguro que mi familia y Yo estamos contigo.

Dear Amy, our family sends our deepest sympathy in these moments of pain, be sure that my family and I are with you.

Le estamos pidiendo a Dios que te de fuerzas a Vos y tu familia para que podas sobrellevar estos tiempos de dolor, quiero que les trasmitas este mensaje a tu papá y tus hermanos, siempre estas en nuestras oraciones y nuestros corazones.

We are asking God to strengthen you and your family as you endure these painful times, please give this message to your dad and your brothers, you are always in our prayers and our hearts.

Quiero decirte que recordare siempre con mucho cariño a Doña Sherin.

I want you to know, I will always remember Doña Sherin with much love.

ATT. JOSE MARIA MORALES SOLIS ( CHEMA )
MANAGUA, NIC.

I was deeply saddened by Sherin’s passing. I knew Sherin from the first WRLP class. We shared many discussions and fun together while learning way back then. She went on to perform I great service to the people of Nicaragua, and helping us in Wisconsin learn about Nicaragua. I was the beneficiary of that work when I visited the learning centers on FTF assignments. I also have known Bryan for many years with our work together at the UW’s ARS. My thoughts and prayers are with Bob, Amy, Bryan and the rest of the family. Be comforted by the legacy she has left, we should all do so well.
Tom Syverud

Dear Bob, Amy and Bowen Family:
You have received enumerable words of support, sympathy and condolences, because Sherin was one of those truly wonderful people of this world. I doubt if I can find any words that express our [all of us that knew and loved Sherin] feelings any better than what has already been written. However, it would be terribly wrong for me not to try. Sherin was a friend, mentor, inspiration and loving person whose dedication is difficult to match. I truly think of her as a mentor because she chaired the Stevens Point-Esteli committee at the time I got involved in Partners — this was late, 1993. As you know she would, she made me feel welcome from the beginning and was the person that taught me what Partnes is, and could be. In her own special and gentle way, she drew me into the organization. As she moved to the Executive Directors position, I was swept along and helped with Farmer to Farmer program for several years. During these years I got to see and experience the full breadth and wonder of what Sherin gave of herself and gave to the Partners. It is not an over-statement to say that what she did for the organization was truly impressive, bordering on incredible. She had vision, grounded in the reality of Nic. and tempered by compassion for our ‘partners’ and friends in the South; she encouraged the rest of us with a gentle hand that made us [volunteers] feel appreciated and important. That is surely a rare talent. We all miss her, as you must terribly. I hope there is a little comfort in knowing what an impact she has had on Stevens Pt., Wisconsin and Nicaragua. This legacy will shine for a long time to come. I am so glad I had the opportunity to get to know her.

De lidia con mucho amor y cariño para lafamilia de sherin.
With much love and caring for Sherin’s family

Se que estos son momentos dificiles para todos ustedes y para mi tambien ya que sherin fue una mujer de lucha, siempre estabapresente en todo lo que se referia a las mujeres de nicaragua,luchando para que salieramos adelante y como ella era mujer de fortaleza asi tambien ustedes se fortalezeran recordandola como la mujer luchadora que fue, ahora es en estos momentos que estamos con ustedes y estamos orando para que Dios nuestro señor me les de la fuerza y fortaleza para seguir el legado que nos dejo a todos de ayudar a nuestro prijimo .Que nuestro señor jesucristo me les ayude a todos y sobre todo a ti mi amiga Emy, un furete abrazo para ti y todos ustedes.Son nuestros deceos de lo mas profundo de nuestros corazones de parte de todo el staf de tipitapa.

I know these are difficult times for you and for me, as Sherin was a strong woman, always present in everything related to the women of Nicaragua, struggling to bring us ahead for she was a woman of strength… now in these moments we are with you and are praying to the Lord our God for your strength and fortitude to continue the legacy she left us all to help our neighbors. May our Lord Jesus Christ bring help to us all and especially to you my friend Amy, a strong hug for you and your family. Our prayers are from the deepest of our hearts, from all the staff of Tipitapa.

Dear Amy and Family,
We are all saddened by the news of Sherin’s passing. My heartfelt condolences to you and your family during this time of great loss and reflection.
Sherin and the Wisconsin/Nicaraguan Partners have been an amazing force for good in Nicaragua for many years. I met her for the first time last fall when she came to visit the Embassy in Managua – she was full of energy and enthusiasm for many W/NP projects – and that energy and enthusiasm were contagious. What a legacy she leaves of thousands of kind acts and lives improved through the exchange of people from two very different places on the globe. Her legacy is one that we should cherish and continue, because her brief sojourn here has definitely made a difference.

Erik Black
Managua, Nicaragua

Amy and family, I am so saddened to hear of Sherin’s passing. We had a nice talk the last time she was here at the American Embassy in Managua. May God give you the strenght to endure these difficult times. May the good memories always be your pillar. A great loss for Nicaragua, such a kind soul.

Carla O’Hare
Managua, Nicaragua

Our thoughts are with you Bob, and your family. We cannot belive this has happened .We are both still in shock. We sure are going to miss seeing Sherin come up for the weekends with Susie. She really liked it up here in her new home. She truely loved her flowers and loved to show off her beautiful yard.
It was such a pleasure to sit with her and listen to her stories of her life. She would do anything for you. She enjoyed talking of her family and really enjoyed it when they were all up here. .
We will truely miss her. God be with you all during this diffcult time. And Bob ,If ever you need anything do call us.
Neighbors; Lee And Nancy Noland

Know tha she wants us all to continue the work, that she’ll be pleased as we do so, and that she is prouder than imaginable to have had so much life with you.

She is never gone, but simply has got to a next stage of existence before the rest of us. Her presence remains indelible; I almost expect her next request for some Nicaragua maps anytime.

Dear Bowen Family, My brother Chuck (Thorp) called Tuesday to say he heard on the Medford station, that Sherin had passed away. You have both of our families deepest condolences. Truthfully, I would rather be writing to you a Christmas greeting and letting you know all about our families. But that is not the case. We remember all the good times we had with you and your family in Germantown. I wore Sherin’s prom dress to my prom. Sherin had a bridal shower for me with all the neighbors. My mom (Ruth) and I went to a hat party at your church in Germantown. Howard and I took dancing lessons at Brown Deer High with both of you. Always so busy, and smiling, that was Sharin. May God grant you peace in this time of suffering. ” Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction and faithful in prayer”. Howard and Carole (Boehlke) Sager

As extended “Southern” Family – it was a great pleasure for us to spend time with the Bowen family during our “Family Reunions”… from the Cherry Bounce to the Oh No’s… every memory ended with a smile. Sherin will be truly missed by all. Our thoughts & prayers are with the immediate and extended family.

With Love… Thomas & Melanie Smith (Son & Daughter-In-Law to Sallie Klimaski)

I weep with each passing moment at the loss all my cousins and aunt are dealing with since the angels came for Sherin. Frank and I knew of her work with W/NP ,but didn’t realize the extent of her affect on so many others around the world until we read the wonderful comment sent to the family. She was truely a blessing to so many people.
We will miss her greatly.
My love and prayers are with you all.

Dear Amy and Family,
I was saddened to hear about Sherin’s death. The last time I saw Sherin was at The Black Purl Yarn shop in Wausau. She was buying yarn to make shawls for Nica women. She showed me a very beautiful red shawl she had made and planned to give away.
I think Sherin was one of the most unselfish people I have ever met. She accomplished so much and did so much good for so many people. I think she really lived the idea of loving kindness.
I know her family and friends will miss her terribly.

Cindy Owen
a Learning Center participant from Wausau

Amy,

I’m so sorry to hear about your mom. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in this very difficult time.

Brenda (Boeckler) Haessig

Dear Amy,

I was shocked to hear of your mother’s tragic accident and death. While it occurred while she was doing something she loved is I am sure only of little comfort. Your mother’s dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to her calling always impressed me. She was truly a great person and I consider myself fortunate to have called her my friend.

I am sure you will miss her greatly, and will find yourself lost without her advice and guidance. It is most difficult to lose a parent when we are the child that lived closest to them. Our lives are changed more significantly than our siblings’. I know it will not be easy for you.

I think you know that God is still in charge. God allowed this happened. He will give you the strength you need and the peace and comfort you seek. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.

I am incredibly sorry to hear about Sherin, my former neighbor, friend and fellow fiber lover. My thought are with all of you.

Francie Ginocchio
Iola, WI

Our deepest sympathy on the loss of your dear wife, mother and grandmother. She was indeed an excetional person and will be deeply missed by many. However, she has taught you many survival skills and with the help of out dear Lord you will move on and make your own mark on the world, never forget the things she has taught you. We will keep you in our prayers. Saly J

To Sherin’s family,
While I never personally met Sherin, I was and continue to be impressed and inspired by the person she was. I am so sorry for your loss and I know that Sherin will be greatly missed, but that her memory and legacy live on through so many people that knew and loved her and carry forth her spirited work and dedication. In this way, may she continue to touch the lives of so many people. I feel honored to belong to this organization to which she dedicated so much.

Bob, Amy & Bowen family:
Was devastated & shocked when i got the news from my son, your family has our sympathy and prayers. Just cannot believe she is gone, will miss her greatly. She was a great person, opened my eyes to the great need in other countries from the two trips i took to Nicaragua with her. If there is anything we can do to assist you please let us know. i will miss her.

I met Sherin as a little girl when I married her brother Frank. She helped me a lot when the kids were little — she was a good babysitter. She had her hands full watching both sets of twins, as well as Patty. She was always so calm and in control. It’s hard to believe that she’s no longer with us. It doesn’t seem possible. We’ll sure miss her!

Sherin was a very special person who I admired greatly. She was a very caring person with many talents and used them to help others. She valued her family and seemed to keep in close contact with each one in spite of her busy life. Sherin will be missed!

“Lord, thou hast been our dwelling place in all generations… Teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom”. (Ps 90). Last week we have lived with prayers and I felt like in the days when everybody was emotionally involved in the hope of Dale’s healing after his terrible accident. God has decided to take Sherin to Him. He always knows what is the best for each of us. But despite her physical departure, she remains with us and her presence will persist in our hearts as an encouraging and inspiring light as long as we will live.

I was blessed to benefit several times of the warm hospitality of Bob and Sherin’s house. It was one of the most delightful moments of Bryan’s and mine very busy two-day period of potato harvest in Hancock. That hour early in the morning of a nice family chat while the oatmeal was boiling in the microwave! It was cold outside and we had to blow a lot of heat to the windshield of our pickup truck before leaving. But inside the kitchen, talking with Bob and Sherin, there was a warm and nice atmosphere.

Sherin was a great person. She had a calm, soft voice and she was spreading peace and love around her. She had established important goals and she knew to pursue them with strength and wisdom. In her bookcase there were books about remarkable women who had great accomplishments in their life. She is not far from them. Her name became a legend in Nicaragua.

She had a soul of an artist. The house was arranged in a very good taste, and I never finished to discover with enthusiasm new pictures, artifacts, clips, drawings, in its rich universe that had so many wonders to share.

She was a great grandmother. On her calendar all her grandchildrens birthdays and important events were carefully marked. And she was a great mom. I remember the respect and admiration we felt when Bryan told me about the wise and full of love letter addressed by her to Bob Jr. and his wife in one of their hard moments.

She was a blessing to everyone whose life was touched by her presence and we were lucky to catch a beam of her loving heart. I will end these thoughts with the verses of the beautiful ancient poem “A thousand winds”:

Do not stand at my grave and weep;
I am not there, I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn’s rain.

When you awaken in the morning’s hush,
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.

Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there, I did not die.

Many heartfelt hugs to all the Bowens. They gave a new shine to the word “friendship”. May God keep you all under His protecting wing.

Horia, Joanna, George and Matt Groza

My prayers to Bob and Family and to dear Sherin. What a beautiful woman and wonderful family.

Dear Bob, Amy and The Bowen Family:
I want to express my deepest condolences in this very difficult and sad time. My prayers are with you and your family. May God give you the strength and comfort you will need. May all the happy memories be with you at all times.
I have worked at Partners of the Americas for 30 years now and have had the opportunity to talk and meet with Sherin. Over the years I saw her on many different occasions – especially at Partners annual conventions. She was an example of a great volunteer leader; she was all about helping people – she is an inspiration to all of us. I will always remember her.
Sincerely, Carmen Sepassi

My heartfelt condolence to the whole family – especially to Bob sr.

Don´t cry that it´s over, smile that it has been (Laotse)

To Sherin’s beloved family:
“My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life.” Psalm 119:50

The best kind of support I know to offer comes from the Source of all comfort. And something that has stood out to me as I read the thoughts and feelings that you have so genuinely shared through Sherin’s website is your unfailing faith and steadfast trust in the Lord’s plan, even when it’s impossible to understand why. Although i did not personally know Sherin, I have heard and read so many magnificent memories and accounts about her from my colleagues at Partners of the Americas in Washington DC. She will always remain a hero to so many that were privileged to know her!

I do sincerely empathize with you…with the questions that you must still be asking yourself through such a tragic circumstance. It’s often hard to imagine a better place than here on this earth with our loved ones….but i pray that you hold fast to the promise that you will be with her again…where she is waiting for you, joyful and peaceful.

Blessings to each of you in His name,
Elizabeth Auciello

POEM FOR THE LIVING
When I am dead,
Cry for me, a little.
Think of me sometimes,
But not too much.
It is not good for you
Or your wife or your
Husband or your children
To allow your thoughts to dwell
Too long on the dead.
Think of me now and again
As I was in life,
At some moment which
It is pleasant to recall
But, not for long.
Leave me in peace,
And I shall leave
You, too, in peace.
While you live,
Let your thoughts be
With the living.
WITH ALL MY LOVE, SUSAN LECK ROBINSON

para : familia Bowen

quiero expresar mis mas sinceras condolencias Dios nuestro senor ya la tiene ensu seno yel enviara su consuelo atodos quienes la amabamos yla seguiremos amando en nuestro recuerdo serhin para mi fue una madre yahora sera un angel.. en su memoria la biblioteca buenos aires sera bautisada como biblioteca serhin bowen.estoy orando mucho para que Dios nuestro senor les fortalesca en este momento de dolor DIOS LA TIENE EN SU JARDIN COMO LA MAS BELLA DE LAS FLORES.. MUJER VIRTUOSA .QUIEN LA ALLARA PORQUE SU ESTIMA SOBREPASA A LAS PIEDRAS PRESIOSAS…..

I express my most sincere condolences. The Lord God has her in his heart and the sends his comfort those to all those who loved her and she will always be cherished in our memory. She was a mother for me, and now is an angel… In her memory, the Buenos Aires Library will now be known as the Sherin Bowen Library. I pray that God our Lord gives you strength at this time of sorrow. God has in His garden the most beautiful of flowers… A virtuous woman, who can find? For her worth is far greater than precious stones…..

I met Sharon as a fellow WRLP Group I member. We had a lot of fun during those two years and I remember her fondly. Please accept my sincere sympathies as you mourn Sharon’s passing and celebrate her life. Thank you for sharing so much about Sharon’s life. Sincerely, Lee (Jensen) Bujold

Extremely saddened by your loss, Bob.
I met your wife once during a CAP get together and was impressed by her assosiation with her organization!
Especially the travel involved!
My wife (Virginia) and I keep a perpetral light burning in our church (Holy Trinity Parish, Newberg, WI.)
We will include Sherin, You and your family in our prayers!
God Bless all of You!

Sherin was one of those special people one is blessed to meet and who you encounter only rarely in ones life.Her goodness,caring and vitality shone thru and touched whoever she met.To know her only briefly you knew you had a friend for life.This is a great loss for the Partners , Wisconsin and Nicaragua and her Family and friends.
My deepest condolences to her family.
John Cassidy Fellows V
River Falls-Ocotal Partners

The Bowen family,

Although I only had a brief opportunity to meet Sherin and Bob at a Partners’ Annual Convention in Buenos Aires back in ’99, it was a memorable experience. Since then and through my involvement with the Illinois – Sao Paulo Partners’ Chapter, I had heard of so many of the wonderful things and great accomplishments of the Bowens not only in Nicaragua and Wisconsin, but from their broad base of friends working in international development programs. Sherin’s autobiography is must reading for anyone working with international development programs — or anyone looking for a model to learn life’s most important messages. She will continue to be, more than ever, a great inspiration for our Chapter and Partners of the Americas as a whole.
My deepest sympathies,
Mike Lofstrom
IL – SP Partners

A warming hug. Words of compassion and understanding. Actions of love. That twinkle in your eye that radiated hope to so many.
Thank you Sherin for freely sharing these gifts with us all.

“There are no great things. Only small things with great love. Happy are those.”…….Mother Teresa.

Our prayers and thoughts are with Sherin and her family.

John,Sara,Antonio and Eva DeNucci

Our hearts our heavy upon hearing of Sherin’s death. We are in Nicaragua at this time, and send our condolences to Bob, Amy, and all of the Bowen family. Sherin was and will continue to be a great inspiration to us. Please know that we remember her fondly. We regret we will not be able to attend the memorial service.

Alan and MIreya Makurat, whom we are visiting in Nicaragua, send their condolences as well.

We will all return to Wisconsin next week.

Paul F Treder, Oshkosh/Condega Partnership

Dear Loved Ones of Sherin,

On behalf to the Trinidad Chapter of Partners I offer sincere sympathy on her passing.

I met Sherin for the first time at the 2007 Convention in Brazil and found her to be a very energetic, inspiring person with a love for life and helping people. She was a live wire of the Nicaragua/Wisconsin team and there is no doubt that she will be surely missed. Her life and loving her extended across international borders; and she will remain in the hearts of many.

Attached is a photo I took of Sherin in her element (uploaded here).

May God bless you and comfort you and may you gain courage in knowing that her life was well spent.

Peace

Wendy-Ann Wattie
Secretary
Trinidad Partners

Dear Bob, dear family,
I am shocked and very, very sad to learn that Sherin has passed away.
We met the first time when Annemarie and I came over to Stevens Point for the Centenary of the University and we stayed at your house. It was the beginning of a wonderful friendship…Sherin was such a hearty and warm person.
My thoughts are with you in these difficult and so sad days.
Love from Monika in Munich

i couldnt believe when i heard the notice, sherin was a really entusiastic woman who gave her best effort for WNP, but not everything turned grey, now she is in a better place, resting in peace and seeing her family grow day by day. it is really impresing to see all the comments here, to se all the people who admire her, no matter where she is, she was a good example for all of us. My family and I are really sorry, we will pray for you, cause remember that God never leaves people alone, trust him and follow him cause he is “the way, the truth and life” .

Lilliam Perez and family
youth ambassador 2008

I have only been involved with WNP for the last 3 years, but in that time I certainly became aware of the impact Sherin has had on everyone fortunate enough to come in contact with her. Her passion and enthusiasm for life and improving the lives of others was very contagious. It is mind boggling to think of the kind of world we would have if there were more “Sherins” to spread goodwill. I feel honored to have witnessed and been inspired by such an amazing woman. My deepest sympathy is extended to the Bowen family.

Kathy and Nicole Nodolf

To Bob from KayReis – Hiawatha Bicycling Club. I was so sorry to hear about your mother’s accident and death. I am praying for your family.
Thank you for letting us know.

Someone who never met Sherin might ask “Who was this woman so many people obviously admired?” A dedicated & tireless worker, one of the best international ambassadors ever commissioned, an inspiration to all she encountered, a woman who loved much & was loved by many & a woman who gave of herself endlessly.
Sherin always saw the possibilities in life. She was always encouraging & often saw sparks of light & talent in someone where others saw nothing special. She had the ability to see a rose in bloom in all of us beyond our brambles & thorns. She could make you laugh until you cried & have you tear up with her stories of Nicargua, its wonderful people & challenges.
Sherin was a friend & mentor to me. She challenged me, supported me & made me step out of my comfort zone & perceived challenges. She placed her fingerprints on our hearts & lives & will be sorely missed. I’m sure God is enjoying her company while she organizes the angels to “make a difference.”
Our thoughts & prayers are with each of you!
Jerry & Nancy Mischnick

Our deepest sympathies to Sherin’s family and her mom and brothers .
John & Karen (old neighbors in Medford)

I have enjoyed reading the wonderful comments on this website. I am amazed & proud of the child I raised. She has always been a concerned & caring daughter. It is rewarding to know how loved she was. Many Thanks for your concern for her family. Blessing to All. June Lemke (Sherin’s mother)

Louise: Sherin was one of the most interesting and vital people I ever met. She was only 15 when I first met her. I can remember her raising her sheep, carding the wool and how she knew which sheep gave which wool. Then she spun it on her spinning wheel. She is the only person I ever knew who could do that in this day and age. I will pray for you all.

Pat: I only met Sherin once and immediately felt abond to her through our love of genealogy. I felt we would become friends, but never got the chance. It was so sad to read the update that I can’t imagine having to write it. Our thoughts are with you all.

Our deepest condolences to all of you at this shocking and sad time….. Having been at UWSP since 1971, I have so many memories of interactions with Sherin over the years – all such positive memories (University Women, the Festival of the Arts, pieces of art Sherin framed for us, getting bales of straw/hay from Bob and Sherin to cover newly seeded areas of our lawn, etc.). Perhaps most memorable is how compelling Sherin always was in her formal and informal presentations – helping us all better understand the wonderous work of the WI/Nic partners project. I hope you’ll all be sustained in remembering her innumerable contributions locally and globally. Mary (and Bob) Mosier

My thoughts and prayers to you all. It’s been a while since I was at the farm from taking care of the animals when you went on vacation to 4H. I have nothing but fond memories.

Sending you blessing and may you find peace in your hearts.

I am so sad that Sherin has left us…but so happy that she is now in a place where she can finally relax. She will be missed by everyone who was ever fortunate enough to have been in her company. We will all miss her energy and enthusiasm.

TROGUH OUT READING YOUR MOM BIO, I FELT PROUD OF BEING A MEMBER PARTNERS.
WHAT A WONDERFUL WOMAN, WHAT A WONDERFUL HUMAN BEING.
I REALLY WAS INSPIRED TO KEEP WORKING WITH OTHERS TO IMPROVE THEIR LIVES.
THIS BIOGRAPHY SHOULD BE PUBLIZED IN MANY NEWSPAPERS.
I ACCOMPANY YOU IN THIS SAD MOMENT, BUT I AM SURE SHERIN WILL LIVE FOR EVER.
SINCERELY
OSCAR MEJIA
PARTNERS PRESIDENT
CENTRAL EASTER COLOMBIA /FLORIDA CHAPTER

Bob,
My condolences on your loss, if there is anything you need, please let me know.

John

Dear Amy and family,
I am so sad to hear about your Mom`s accident. Even though we shared few moments while you were in Ouro Preto in Brazil two years ago, I had met and seen her before in Little Rock Arkansas and learn to admire and appreciate the work she had done while attending a workshop she delivered about things she used to do (Quilts and other thing)regarding the partnership done with all Partners friends from Nicaragua. At that time I learned also to appreciate her and the work done withvoluntarism. No doubts she will be need there where her work will not end.She was brave, reluctant(just read her Bio)I am sure you are very proud of her and you will keep not only at home with your family and with the Partner the same spirit, the same attitude ,the same determination you have learn from her.May God confort you & family We will be here praying .Receive from Espirito Santo/West Virginia partnership all are best thoughts.Jose Marcio Barros

Dear Mr. Bowen,

The Jamaica Chapter extends our deepest condolences on the passing of your dear wife and our fellow partner, Sherin. Such a dear soul–the life she lived attests to this. May you find comfort in the warmth and inspiration she brought to the lives she touched. Kindly extend our sympathies also to the rest of the family. May God strengthen you all at this time.

Regards,
Trudy-Ann Barrett
President- The Jamaica Chapter

Dear Mr. Bowen,

We in Jamaica are deeply saddened to hear of your loss. Although words are inadequate to ease the pain you bear, please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. May God strengthen you in this difficult time and may the peace which comes from the fond memories shared, comfort you now and in the days ahead.

Regards,
Pat Ramsay & the Jamaica Chapter

Sending deepest sympathy to Bob and the entire family in the loss of your beloved Sherin. She will always be a hero to me and to countless others. What an amazing impact she made in her life, and such love for you, her family, is evident in her biography.
Stevens Point is losing far too many heroes, long before their time (and ours) in recent months.
Surely their inspiring lives and gifts will continue to hold us up, and continue the inspiration in our own lives.

You are all in my heart,
Cindy Chelcun

My family will hold a memorial Mass for Sherin at St. Jude Catholic Church, 3930 17th St. Sarasota, Fl; on Sunday March 29th at 12:00 PM. Any friends in the area are welcome to come.

Sherin is the sister I never had. We helped one another, we laughed, we cried, we complained. We had our get away on Washington Island weaving and spinning. I was blessed to have married into this family and I will miss her deeply and treasure my shawl and all our time together. Marlene Lemke (sister in law) Your one of kind Sherin Love you.

Sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts are with your family.

Dear Amy, Bob, Sr., and Family,

My deepest sympathies on the loss of your mother and wife. I can hardly imagine that she is gone. Please know that if there is anything I can do that would be helpful to you or to the Wisconsin / Nicaragua Partners that Sherin worked so hard for, I will do it—just let me know.

I had hoped one day to take a trip with Sherin to Nicaragua. While that chance is gone, I know that her spirit will continue in the organization through your efforts, and hopefully the redoubled efforts of our members. I can’t imaging that in any way we can “fill in” for her, but we must.

My prayers and support in this most difficult and sad situation.

Lois Lawler, Stevens Point

Oh my dears! I am so very sorry for your loss — it is a loss of a powerful, amazing woman. I knew Sharon through knitting. She called me up one day to ask if I’d develop a knitting pattern for W/NP, which resulted in the “La Wisconsinica” shawl pattern. After that Martha Fullmer and I worked on the Manos a Manos Shawl fundraiser for W/NP.
Sharon’s energy and passion have been so inspiring to so many people. I am so glad I knew her. I will think of her as I knit, and send prayers your way.
Jane Barnard

Most of you don’t know me and I never had the opportunity to meet Sherin. My name is Bill Zuelsdorff. I am the principal at St. Paul Lutheran school and have had Travis and Heather Wiza as students. On behalf of the school staff, I would like to offer my deepest and sincerest symapthies to your family. From what I have read, Sherin was a very special lady and the world has lost a super person. Your loss is heaven’s gain. I will be sure to keep your family in my prayers over this loss. I can tell from the messages you have left that you are rooted in God and know that His purpose is supreme and good. Keep the faith and know that in all situations God works for the good of those who love Him. I would encourgae your family to keep carrying out the work that Sherin was doing. I’m sure this would be her wishes for you.

Blessings,

Bill Zuelsdorff
Principal – St. Paul Lutheran School
Stevens Point, WI

I do not think it is true what happened to Sherin, although I do not think that a woman has left us so talented, I was very impressed by his departure, every day of my life I am going to remember when she went for me to the airport with a coat and a scarf for me because this was my first trip to Stevens Point and I did not know there was very cold, so she was always attentive to the large and small details.

I trust she is with our Lord Jesus Christ because she is worthy of being with Him

Fredman Perez and family

I had the pleasure of spending time with Sherin and Amy at the Ouro Preto, Brazil, Partners convention in 2007. What a marvelous woman and family! I share with Sherin, Amy and the rest of the Bowen clan a familial Partners connection, since I am involved in Massachusetts as a volunteer and my son Matt is on staff in the International Office in D.C. I feel that shared connection through Partners’ work in addition to family bonds as a very powerful and inspiring one in life, and I know it will help keep Sherin’s presence with you and with all of us as we move forward.

To Bob and your family, my condolences, and I guess shock that this happened. Knowing that Sherin was doing what she loved, her amazing committment, I hope is comforting to you all. I remember when she started this quest and had nothing but an intense drive and desire to make a difference. And she made it work. She was amazing.

In 1938 God gave us a love, and provided us with a light to turn from darkness into the lives of many people and Sherin was born. From that moment forward Sherin was destined to touch every one on her path. Then she met Bob Bowen and it could not have been a better pair and they gave us shinning stars by their wonderful children.
Her touch created love, and her tireless hard work gave so many people in Wisconsin and Nicaragua blessings, determination to build a better future. It was over 40 years ago that Sherin, almost all by herself and the the support of her wonderful husband, Bob and the continuation suppor of their family, “The Bowens,” that Wisconsin Nicaragua Partners of the Americas was born.
Sherin never looked back since, and never gave up on her fight to make it a better world for those who needed the most. Even on her death she opted to give others the chance to live by donating her organs.
As The Statute of Liberty’s poem “A mighty woman with a torch,” Sherin will stand tall and will never and shall never be forgotten. And just as the silent lips of the Stature of Liberty, Sherin’s legacy will live on and shed would always be saying “Give me your tired, your poor.”
Now that she is gone and Im sure in a better place, she will be looking out for us from heaven, and it is our turn now to continue living her legacy and we must be determined to tirelessly, work for the support of The Bowens and WNP for many many years to come.
Love to all of you.
Wisconsin/Partners of the Americas
Omar Barberena, VP

I heard this in church just yesterday. It reminds me of Sherin, with her huge capacity to keep her heart open. It will help me heal. From this deep loss, my heart will grow bigger.

“You know, what are hearts for? Hearts are there to be broken, and I say that because that seems to be just part of what happens with hearts. I mean, mine has been broken so many times that I have lost count. But it just seems to be broken open more and more and more, and it just gets bigger. I remember saying to my therapist, ‘You know, my heart by now feels open like a suitcase. It feels like it has just sort of dropped open, you know, like how a big suitcase just falls open.’ It feels like that.” –Alice Walker

My deepest blessings go to Sherin’s grandchildren, including my children Rosy and Javier, who were given so much by Sherin. I will support their carrying their grandma’s spirit forward.

to whom it may concern,
my name is don lingl. i met sherin 3 years ago in san juan del norte looking at some potty. i could tell right off she was a cheese head, as so am i. i asked her what she was doing in nicaragua. she explained her involvment with w/np and the problem they were having getting some supplies released from the airport. i then introduced her to my nicaraguan wife, isabel moraga. it is my understanding they became close friends, and isabel now works with w/np because of sherin’s encouragment.
i’m sorry for your great lose. if there is anything i can do, please feel free to ask.
sincerely,
don lingl
9206048042

When I worked with Partners of the Americas I had numerous opportunities to see Sherin in action. As a staff we would use Sherin’s involvement with the partnership as the …gold standard of volunteerism. “Wish I had a Sherin in my partnership” you would often hear said in the hallways. She demonstrated a commitment and dedication unmatched by many. She seemed to have more energy, more resourcefulness, more perseverance, more than 24 hours each day…and on and on. She was a force to be dealt with. Her absence will be greatly felt in many places, by many people. Kate Raftery

On behalf of the Cultural Staff here at the U.S. Embassy in Nicaragua, I wanted to tell you how deeply sorry we are for your great loss. Though I never had the privilege of meeting Sherin in person, I visited her at the hospital here in Nicaragua and was moved by the out-pouring of love and support that surrounded her…and still does. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Warmly,
Michelle

I am very sad to learn of Sharin’s death. I have been twice to Los Cedros and other places where her work transformed individual lives and entire communities. She will be greatly missed. My sincere sympathy to her family and freinds.

Mary Ellen Bell,
Madison chapter,WNP

Aunt Sherin and Uncle Bob visited us last in early 2003. We were having a memorial for our mother who had disappeared in 1993. They brought Uncle Lester with them and stayed overnight. Aunt Sherin wanted a rock from our place to be placed in their fireplace in the cabin on the lake. We had some special rocks that we had brought from our previous home in the “wilderness” some 40 miles north of where we live now. Aunt Sherin took one of those rocks. She wanted to remember family and friends by those rocks she got from different ones. I know she was working on family history and we were anxious to see what all she had collected. She will surely be missed by all of us. To Uncle Bob, Bob, Brian, Beth and Amy “The Lord bless thee, and keep thee: The Lord make His face shine upon thee,and be gracious unto thee: The Lord lift up His countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.”

My prayer and thoughts are with you all. May God have her rest in Peace.

I lost my mother 1 year and 22 months ago and reading this blog it brought me back to her memories (lost of tears). I know how difficult it’s but God gives us strengh to acept something we all have to go throught. Whenever you think of Sherin just think of the good and beautiful times you shared with her.
God Bless you all.

I used to work at Partners of the Americas.

the world has lost a very special lady, and I have lost A special aunt , I feel your loss, please say hi to GRAMMA for me she is also special to me as well, as you can see my middle name is HERMAN which i am very proud of. I will be thinking of all of you, take care.

During the 3+ years I worked with Partners of the Americas in Washington, I always regarded Wisconsin/Nicaragua as the best example of what true partnership should be. There is no doubt that Sherin was the life and inspiration of this partnership. I had the chance to travel to Wisconsin and see it in action, through her family, the volunteers, the Nicaraguans who were visiting at the time…
Sherin left for all who met her or knew of her, an example of dedication and true friendship that crosses any frontier, any language or race. I send my deepest condolences to all her friends and family, specially to Amy and her family who I had the pleasure to get to know during those years. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

Dear Wisconsin Partners

As your staff officer at the national Partners organization for 19 years (1970-1989) I was very aware of the fine work done by Sherin for the Wisconsin-Nicaragua partnership, which was always one of the most dynamic and active of all the partnerships in the Partners program.

I want to extend my sympathies to Sherin’s family and to your fine organization. Your excellent projects continue to be testimony to her hard work.

E. David Luria
Washington DC
former Sr. Associate Director, Partners of the Americas

Dear Bob, Amy, and Family,
I am shocked and deeply saddened to hear of Sherin’s passing. Sherin was an inspiration to many through her compassion and dedication to WNP. I feel truly blessed to have had the opportunity to work with her. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Racquel, Noah, Nya & Bode Calhoun

Dear Bob and Family, Absolutely shocked to receive news of Sherins death. Claudia and I will be joining you in prayer and thoughts. Though we never met Sherin we know she was always working to help others less fortunate and that she will be sorely missed by a very large section of community in two countries. Of course she will be missed even more by yourself, so our prayers go to you Bob and family. May she Rest in Peace. Claudia and Frank O’Connor Newfoundland

Dear friends,
My heart is heavy with sharing your burden. What an emotional roller coaster you have had.
I did not get a chance to know Sherin, but feel blessed to hear a little of her story and the lives she touched. Please know that your family will be in our prayers as you continue through this very difficult time of saying goodbye.
Lovingly,
Mary Norwood & family
Jeremiah 29:11

May God’s blessings be upon all of you as you say goodbye to this wonderful woman. I remember knowing her and working with her for several years on the university campus.

Keep your precious memories of her close to your hearts and remember she will be with you always.

Condolences,
Jane and Chris Giese and family

My heart is full with appreciation for my friend Sherin and all she has offered to me and with me to our beloved Nicaragua. I had the incredible and coincidental ?? opportunity to spend a part of her final weekend in Mangua with her at the Las Mercedes. I invited her to come back to San Juan del Sur with me for a rest until it was time to go back to WI, and oh how I wish she had said yes, but as always duty came first. She will be so sorely missed by so many. After the week on prayer and hopes for her recovery, the news of her passing came to us here in San Juan del Sur. My Bombero volunteer friend Thomas Dempsey shouldered the shock with me and sent me the following Irish Prayer. I share it here in the hope that it can bring some small measure of comfort to all: Jane Mirandette

An old prayer.
Death is nothing at all.
It does not count.
I have only slipped away into the next room.
Everything remains as it was.
The old life that we lived so fondly together is untouched, unchanged.
Whatever we were to each other, that we are still.
Call me by the old familiar name.
Speak of me in the easy way which you always used.
Put no sorrow in your tone.
Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes that we enjoyed together.
Play, smile, think of me, pray for me.
Let my name be ever the household word that it always was.
Let it be spoken without effort
Life means all that it ever meant. It is the same as it ever was.
There is unbroken continuity.
Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight?
I am but waiting for you, for an interval, somewhere very near, just around the corner.
All is well. Nothing is hurt; nothing is lost.
One brief moment and all will be as it was before.
How we shall laugh at the trouble of parting, when we meet again

Dear Bob and family
I was indeed shocked and saddened by these events. There were few people I had ever met more alive than Sherin. Ever since I had started being active in Partners of America, I always regarded as the best there was to be and she served as a model of what could be accomplished. She will be missed, I am sure by all who have met her and I am sure by many people in Nicaragua, whose lives have been changed by Sherin and yourselves.

I carry in my mind a picture of her knitting on a bus at one of our Partner conventions as we talked enthusiastically of what was to be. There are a small handful of people I look forward to meeting at our conventions and Sherin was surely one of these.

I know that she will live on in your hearts and mine and be fulfilled in your own futures.

Peace be with you.

In these difficult moments, may God carry through this path of suffering caused by the separation of such important part of yourselves. As God help you on this, we pray that you find comfort on the blessings that having Sherin around you meant in your lives.

May our Merciful Lord be with you,

It wasn’t until today after church that I found strength to express my feelings about this sad loss. I felt connected with Sherin in my thoughts today and I told her how much she meant to me, how much I will miss her wisdoms and encouragement. I have only great memories about Sherin that I will treasure for ever. Nothing will take away the great woman, human being and mother I found in her. She shared all her love for life with every single person she met and brought happiness in to our hearts.
Knowing Sherin, I am sure she is already hands on helping God to make us stronger and learn how to go thru the hilling of her not being with us today.
Sherin was, is and will be loved for ever. I will miss her so much.

Edith.

Dear Uncle Bob and Bowen family,

We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to you and your family. To hear of such an unexpected and tragic loss of your wife and mother, saddens our hearts beyond what words could express.

As I read the entire section of entries that transpired during this time, and looked over all the pictures that have been posted of Aunt Sherin…..I can only imagine the sadness in your hearts. Unfortunately, I do not have any pictures to post, but a couple memories of her and a recent visit to our home. One thing that stands out in my mind was a short, but very meaningful conversation that she and I held after Baba’s (Loretta) funeral. Aunt Sherin actually came to me and thanked me personally for allowing my children to attend the funeral. She went on to explain to me how she felt it was very important for them to be there and how alot of parents of young children do not bring them to funerals. I also think she looked at me, holding my newly born son, Connor Aiden, who was only 1 week old at the time, and knew that I wanted them to be there…..I wanted them to be there because they loved her.

Among a few other conversations that Aunt Sherin and I held over the course of those few days, I seen in her as person that I admired, greatly. A very nice and respectable woman who’s family meant the world to her. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her, even people like me who didn’t know her well at all, but who have certain memories that stand out concerning her.

Surely, you will all be in our prayers for the weeks, and months ahead of you. God is the only one that can begin to heal a hurt so deep, and a loss so great. Matthew 5:4.

With deepest sympathy,

Kellie Yeagly and Roy Yeagley and family

Dear Wiza/Bowen family:

My heart and prayers go out to you as you deal with the tremendous loss of wife, mother, aunt and friend to so many, Sherin Bowen. I have no pictures to share because I had just met Sherin and Amy at the Partners International Convention in Ouro Preto, Brazil, in November 2007, and all of the pictures and times working and celebrating Partners accomplishments were yet to come. In just that brief first time, it was so apparent what a caring and dynamic force Sherin was. She had hardly arrived and was already meeting after the first dinner with Partners officers and the incoming President, Steve Vetter, urging actions and plans for the future. I got a glimpse of her contribution to the Wisconsin-Nicaragua Partnership in the presentaton about it at the New Leaders Training and in the conversation with her and with Amy at the Convention, but I had the impression that Sherin was never focused on getting the credit but was always focused on getting the results— helping make things better for others. And, she did it with such enjoyment and zeal.

Truly, Sherin was a remarkable woman, a force for good and a role model for caring for our fellow human beings. The story on the website doesn’t explain what she was exploring at the time of the accident, but it is easy to know that it must have been for new space and for new projects, her energy and optimism always active. At such a tragic moment, there is sorrow that no heart can be prepared for, but I will hold you in my thougths and prayers as will many others, for the peace and comfort you deserve.

Abracos,
Jhani Laupus, Indiana Partners of the Americas

It is hard to imagine a more dedicated Partner volunteer than Sherin. During my short, privileged time as the WI/Nicaragua partnership rep, I learned first hand how she set the standard for finding whatever resource available for solving problems. She challenged everyone around her to do the same, and by example elevated the impact and importance of volunteerism across the Americas. Clearly she found untold meaning as a volunteer. Our world would do well to folow her example. My heartfelt condolences go out to Bob, Amy and the entire family.

Rich Lamporte

I met Sharin in one of the meetings at Stevens point. I grew up in Nicaragua. Moved from there when I was 18 years old. I have been living in Wisconsin 30 years. I was really blessed to hear Sherin speak so highly about my country and its people. She loved Nicaragua with all her heart.
She was a woman of service. She is welcomed by God with open arms. She was a good and faithful servant. Even though I only met her briefly, she touched my life. I am sure she will be praying for all of us who seek to continue the mission of bringing love, health and happiness to the Nicaraguan people. She is to be an example to all of us that life on this earth without serving others is not really living. May she now enjoy eternal life with God .

To the Bowen family, my deepest sympathy to everyone. I didn’t know Sherin, but I do know Bob
and the kind, caring person he is. I’m so sorry for your loss.

God Speed

Laurie

Deseo que sus corazones tenga paz y consuelo que tento, que tanto nesecitan.
los quiero mucho.

I hope that your hearts have the peace and comfort that is so needed right now. I love you all very much.

Un Pensamiento

La amistad es uno de los regalos de la vida,
y en ti encuentro una de las buenas.
Nos une el nexo que hemos compartido
durante los años desde que nos conocimos.
Cada año transcurrido, nos ha acercado más.
Nos hemos querido en momentos de enfermedad,
de desconsuelo, y de tantas cosas más.
Juntos celebramos nuestra juventud.
Contigo, aprendí a reírme de mí.
Has llenado mi corazón y mi mente
con recuerdos para toda una vida.
Mi afecto por ti ya no cabe en una amistad;
eres parte de mi familia.
Que el futuro nos traiga la alegría del éxito
y una eterna amistad que nos une
en los momentos difíciles que el destino nos depare.

Friendship is a gift of life,
and you encounter one of the best.
We have shared the link that binds us
during the years since we met.
Each year, we have been closer.
We loved at times of illness,
of distress, and so much more.
Together we celebrate our youth.
With you, I learned to laugh at myself.
You fill my heart and mind
with memories for a lifetime.
My affection for you can not be only a friendship;
you’re part of my family.
That the future will bring the joy of success
and an everlasting friendship that unites us
in the difficult times when our fate comes.

Tú y yo siempre estaremos juntas,

Y nuestras familias unidas por nuestra amistad

Amiga y hermana mía.

You and I are always together,

And our families united by our friendship

My friend and sister.

Con Amor y cariño

Karla Núñez Guerrero
Nicaragua.

Althought it’s been over 20 years since I’ve last visited Sherin, I have never forgotten her wisdom and how she influenced my life on and after the trip to London. I am devastated to hear about our loss and frustrated, as I planned to visit with Sherin and Bob this summer upon a trip to Wisconsin. I wish the very best to the family and am glad to hear that Sherin lives on in others’. I know she is joyful to know that she can help others in such a powerful way. Love you Sherin and Bob. :)

We will miss our wonderful Sherin. Ronda always said that she felt that Sherin was like a second mother to her. We’re sure many others can say the same thing. When ever we think of Sherin, we see her sitting in a rocking chair somewhere in Nicaragua, with knitting needles in hand, surrounded by many friends, all telling wonderful jokes or serious stories about WNP work in Nicaragua. We will miss her so very much. Sherin’s passion for helping others will always be an inspiration to us. We extend our deepest sympathy to Bob and family.

Bob & Family
Thank you for what you have done for all of us, by keeping us informed on the events of the past week. Thank you also for sharing Sherin with us, she will live on in each of you and in all the people she has touched through her strength and grace. Please know that our prayers are with all of you. Please let us know if we can help in anyway, may God keep you all enfolded in his loving arms.

With deepest sympathy
Barb & Kurt Johnson

“God has many ways of reminding us
that the beautiful spirits who have touched our lives
soar higher and farther than we would ever imagine,
all the way to perfect peace and freedom with Him.”

Thank you Amy and Bowen Family for sharing an intensely close and deep experience with all of us. Like so many others, I came to know Sherin through the Wisconsin/Nicaragua Partners, and came to see her as a model of selfless love and concern for others, delicate sensitivity in intercultural exchanges, and marvelous wisdom. I will miss her for all of that – and also as a friend. My prayers and thoughts are with all of you.

“May time soften the pain
until all that remains
is the beauty of the memories…
and the love,
always the love.”

BLESSED MEMORY
When someone we loves dies, may we after our weeping, discover that what we seem to have lost has been taken into your safekeeping to be preserved forever in a better state. When we learn to let go, help us to cherish the memories of all that was good and lasting in the one who has died. Prayer is from the Lakota Prayer Book by the Rev.Charles Flood, SCJ. …………

love and prayers to the family from our family in PA/NC, Susan, Anna, Roy, Joe – 3.22.2009 (3:40pm)

I will trust and not be afraid, for the Lord is my strength and song; He is my salvation. Oh, the joy of drinking deeply from the Fountain of Salvation! Isaiah 12:2,3

To Sherin’s Family: Today is Sunday, I requested a special prayer in St. Paul’s this morning for the family. If you need any help, I am available to come or if I can prepare some food, just contact me.
My thoughts are with all of you and also Sherin’s family too.

Love, Lila

Words are inadequate to express our sadness and disbelief at Sherin’s passing. She was so vigorous, generous, and strong; it’s hard to believe she’s no longer with us. Sherin made our world a better place and positively influenced the lives of so many people. We will miss her and extend our condolences to all her wonderful family and her many friends and colleagues at this time of intense sorrow and loss.
CathyEckberg and Jim Butler

Amy and family,
Words cannot express the sorrow I feel for you at this time. My heart just breaks for you, and my prayers are with you.
Mel

Dear Bob and Family, Please know that my prayers are with you all in this most difficult time. What a sad loss, but what a wonderful life to celebrate! Of course, I remember Sherin first when she worked for me at Health and Human Services in the mid-late 80’s. Then, as now, she was a unique woman with a big heart and a passion to make a difference. She found her path with the Partners program and created such an inspiring legacy . I hope you will rest in peace with the gift her life was to us all. Love, Lauri and Scott

The prayers of our Racine Dominican are the family of Sherin Bowen. May God bring your comfort in your great loss.
Her legacy will live on for a long time.
Sr. Brenda

Dear Amy and family,

I’m so sad to hear about Sherin’s accident. It was a privilege to meet and work with her in Managua last November. I’m a newcomer to WNP and she made me feel welcome and useful. She’s going to be greatly, greatly missed.

Pierre

Our Dear Bob and Family
Our hearts are broken at the tragic news of the loss of Sharin. It just doesn’t seem possible. The only peace we can have about this is that we know she is in the arms of Jesus and safe from all suffering and pain. We pray for God’s comforting arms to hold you through this sad time. You know that you are in my prayers. God’s peace and our love.

Your cousin, Bernadine (Moore) Fuller and Don

I can find no words to express the shock I feel from this news and the sorrow I feel for your family. May God bless and provide comfort while you deal with Sherin’s passing.

Jeff T.

I have known and admired Sherin for many years through Partners. She will certainly live on through her work with Nicaragua and Wisconsin. She gave so much and now we give her back to God and the universe. She couldn’t leave a better legacy than you, her family. God bless and care for you always.

Paula Laschober
President, Washington/Chile Partners
Member, Interamerican Board, Partners of the Americas

A terribly loss for all of us who knew her.

May the Lord comfort Sherin’s family in this difficult time

Hola Amy.

Se que son momentos dificiles pero solo Dios Sabe por que suceden en nuestras vidas, Dios esta con cada uno de Ustedes en estos momentos, el los lleva en sus brazos, y el les ama mucho, por acà hemos estado en oraciòn por cada miembro de la familia de doña Sherin, por sus amigos que la hemos querido mucho y que estamos seguros que al volver Jesùs la veremos nuevamente.

These are hard times but only God knows why it happens in our lives, God is with each of you at this time, takes you in his arms, and loves you very much, we have been in prayer here for each member of doña Sherin’s family, for your friends that we loved very much and we are sure that Jesus will return again.

Nunca dejemos de orar por que solo asi tendremos la fortaleza ante la pèrdida de alguien que vivirà por siempre en nuestros corazones.

Never stop praying for that is the only way we will have the strength for the loss of someone that will live forever in our hearts.

Un abrazo.

Dra. Gloria Toruño

Sherin was one person in a million. Always ready with encouragement or a diet Coke. I will miss her. Amy, Beth and Bob as well as the rest of the family my heart goes out to you. Remember God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but shall have eternal life.
Lynda

Mi muy querida Amy y Familia:
Como decia Sherin ! Siempre hay un tiempo para Amar y un tiempo para todo como dice en Ecclesiastes 3 ! .. ella siempre me decia eso en sus mensajes y tu siempre estuvistes en diferentes tiempos con ella, ahora ella esta en su tiempo de Paz junto al Redentor y siempre la tendremos en nuestros corazones Descanse en Paz

As Sherin said, there is always a time for love and a time for everything as it says in Ecclesiastes 3! .. she always told me that in her messages and you were always with her at different times, now she is at peace in her time with the Redeemer and will always Rest in Peace in our hearts.

love
Leonor

Thank you to all of you, the family for keeping us aware of Sherin´s.

For the last two days, I have been anxiously looking at the web site page for good news. It is true this might not come as one to us, but it is for her because God has taken her to be on his side to prize her for such social meaningful work she did in Nicaragua. Though I met her for short time, I can witness and feel her true love she had for needed people. She really was preaching the gospel through her service. But her legacy will not ever end if all us follow the tracks she successfully marked.

Amy, Please count on my support I could give the organization or family. God will give all of you strength enough to stand your mom, grandma and wife´s loss.

Since she´s gone ahead, think of being as she was while living, to then meet her in heaven.
I´ll trully miss her much!

Bob and Family

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Scott,Lynn,and Amanda Woodford

Dear Bob and Family,

Chuck Swindoll says it best:

Imagine standing in heaven surrounded by all the people you have influenced for the sake of the gospel. Your dear sister or uncle or son. Your coworker or neighbor, the teenage you sat beside on the bus, or the many people who have come to Christ through the missionaries you supported. What a thrill indeed! The crown of exaltation is for all of us who share the good news of salvation with the many people who ebb and flow through our lives.

This side of heave we will never know the legacy that has been Sherin’s life. I cannot imagine the pure joy, the awe as she stands surrounded for eternity by those who have come to Christ through His love pouring out through her witness. May this same love comfort you during this loss…..and remind you of the humble words ‘Well done, good and faithful servant’.

In His love,

Coni<

First of all, just let me say that I have no idea and cannot imagine what the family members must have been passing through that day when they got the news about Sherin’s accident and furthermore when she had to be taken to a hospital in Wisconsin, then leading to the part of life we all must come to someday:her death. My regards and most heartfealt condolences go out to Amy and her family while they are passing through these moments of sorrows and pain for the loss of their dearly and beloved loved one.
I hope deeply that you can put your trust in God because he is the only ne who will comfort you and guide you in these moments of sorrow and pain.
In the Holy Bible we find that the circle of life ends with death and although we wouldn’t want to lose our loved ones, in one time or another we must come to it, just remembering that this was her time and that now she will be in the loving arms of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ from there she will be guiding her loved ones and sending them blessings from above.

My deepest sympathy to Sherin’s family and to her rest of loved ones and friends, who I will keep in my prayers for them to find comfort and relief in the arms of God and with his love they will accept that Sherin is in the place of heavenly rest where there will be no more sorrow and no more pain.
“Oh death where is thy sting, Oh grave where is thy victory”
Just remember these words, “Abide with me fast falls the eventide, the darkness depends but the Lord with me will abide”

My deepest sympathy to the berief family again and I hope they will find confort in the Lord in these times that they are facing as a family.

I had the pleasure to meet Sherin briefly a couple of weeks ago at the warehouse in Managua. Rodney Mcdonald and myself came to see the warehouse and began to understand the amazing legacy Sherin has left. What a loss this is for you and all of the people of Nicaragua.We are a grain of sand on the beach she created of hope, healing and sustainability. Please let us know what we can do to help.

Sincerely

Larry Hendricks

Oakland Firefighters Random Acts

Sherin met my grandmother 12 years ago, she wanted to become a new woman and I will achieve everything that today, I leave a great legacy to share with other women, she enjoyed knitting with two needles and a once told me you’re the ideal person to learn and I am your grandmother taught you, from that moment she became part of my family, as we can not imagine their pain, but we have been in constant prayer to God I which is in heaven will comfort all her family and strength, when he received the news they were all children of the Library and can not imagine the sadness in them was reflected by a profound silence for 5 minutes and have not stopped asking in my community, then we will do a mass in her name.

To the entire Bowen family, It has been a very upsetting few days, with the news of Sherin’s accident. I can only imagine what your family has been through, but I also know that Sherin is feeling the love of all of you, as you stand by her. She has been a huge inspiration to me since I met her, over 10 years ago. She is like another Mother to me, as I lost my Mom at age 66, so always looked up to Sherin with any questions, and her ability and compassion to handle any situation in Nicaragua. I know God has guided her hands, heart and mind, to help all those in Nicaragua who needed her over the years. Now, her future is in the Lords hands, and we will continue to pray for all of you, as you wait upon the Lord. Please know you are in our prayers. With much love, Mary Kautz

Thanks so much for the update. Glad the trip to Milw. went well. We imagine there were risks associated with the move but you obviously had to do it. Please let us know if you would like us to do anythign in Stevens Point. We are praying for Sherin’s recovery and for the family’s stengh as well. We will check the website often.

Peace,
Bob and Molly

Bryan,
You and your family are making the hardest decision anyone has to make in their lifes, that of entrusting God to guide your lives and those of your loved ones. At the same time I believe you have found that there is no other way in life but to do so. You have felt what we all must allow ourselves to experience, the love and power of our maker. As you say, it is a very freeing moment to say the least.

Thank you for sharing your very personal experience with all of us and allowing us to see how something so terrible as this accident can bring something so good. Que Dios les bendiga en su camino!

Matt DuFresne

Lifting you and your love ones in prayers of healing & comfort.

Aunt Sherin, I send my love and prayers to you.

Lisa

(niece)

I am Moises from Nicargua I would like let you know that Sherin nickname is Flor de Sacuanjoche is Nicaragua national flower I gave that name when she got retired and God have blessing Nicaragua through our Sherin she have been so special to me I was born once again when I met her. I would like to say more but for now my prayers heart and mind are with her.