Kay Stowe

Kay Frances Stowe, 77, of Clive, IA passed away from bladder cancer on Saturday, August 31st, 2024, at home peacefully.

Kay was born on April 5th, 1947 to Marvin and Evelyn Olerich. She graduated from Carroll Kuemper High School in 1965 and she graduated from the University of Northern Iowa in 1969.

Kay was an avid gardener. Her gardens continually expanded, planning during the winter months followed by planting and adding during season. Starters were passed to and from her many beloved gardening friends.

Her flowered Facebook posts were shared by many along with her frequent tidbits of wisdom or amusement that were loved by many.

Kay and family usually had two cats throughout her 46 years of marriage to Bud Stowe. They raised two sons, Jason and Sean.

Jason Stowe, now 44, lives in Seattle with 4 loved grandchildren, Ashley 13, Christopher 8, Davin 6, and Caslyn 3. Sean Stowe, now 40, lives in Clive as master of Oliver (cat).

Kay was a Gold Life Master at contract bridge and bridge is where she met her husband in 1978. They played locally for years in Des Moines and traveled together to bridge tournaments on occassion with friends. Bridge was a love of Kay until allergic asthma (smoke, perfume intolerance) put an end to her playing in later years.

Whether it as at home with friends and family, or playing bridge, or visiting or attending to gardens, her smile and love for all was actively expressed and noted by all.

Kay was a wonderful cook, took care of all the household activities, was always active, never idle except when reading as she loved science fantasy and mystery novels (rereading her favorites).

She was thoughtful and caring of others, always finding the right gifts for grandchildren or flowers for her gardening friends or just sharing her warm smile with everyone she met.

Kay is survived by her husband Bud Stowe, her two sons, Jason Stowe and Sean Stowe, her 4 grandchildren, her brothers Keith Olerich, Denny Olerich, Danny Olerich, and her sisters Kristy Malone and Linda Klocka. She is preceded in death by her parents and her brother Dean Olerich.

As per Kay's request, there will be no funeral or memorial service held.