Merle Stowell

Merle Stowell

Panguitch, Utah

Merle Proctor Stowell, 100, passed away October 19, 2018, in her own home in Panguitch. Merle was the widow of Robinson Benson Stowell who preceded her in death over 50 years ago on June 4, 1964.

Merle was born on May 7, 1918 in Panguitch. She was the 15th child of Myron Joseph and Martha Jane Sevy Proctor. She married "Bob", May 28, 1938 in Junction, Utah. Their marriage was solemnized in the St. George Temple on June 20, 1944.

Merle leaves a legacy of beautiful hand quilted quilts, made with love for friends, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Flowers and vegetables from her garden have been shared with many, and her homemade bread is loved by so many dear friends and family, particularly her grandchildren. She has been an example of hard work and thrift her entire life.

Merle worked beside Bob helping him remodel their home, and helped him in every endeavor. They both loved to dance and instilled a love of music in their children. When Bob left Merle a widow at 46 years of age, she was blessed to be offered a job at Zion’s Bank, a position she held for five years. She then ran for and was elected to serve as Garfield County Treasurer, a position she held for nearly 15 years. During these years she continued to sew for her family and welcomed grandchildren into her life. She has served in many capacities in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, both on the stake and ward level, giving each calling her all. She served a full-time mission in Oklahoma after her retirement from Garfield County. She had other opportunities to travel to places such as South America, France, Israel, Austria and many places within the United States.

Merle is survived by her loving children: Roberta (Richard) Fowler, ID; Dr. Donald Earl (Toni) Stowell, CA; and Jeanette (Daniel) Welch, CA; 17 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild.

Merle is also preceded in death by her parents; her 15 siblings: Myron Ray (Vera) Proctor, Martha Elizaeth Proctor, Merlin Proctor, Ruth D (Joseph "Dub") Davis, Oeah Maude Proctor, Eva M (Earl) Tebbs, Gwendolin (George) Daly, William B (Elsie & Thirza) Proctor, Aleta (Merrill) Furlong, John Sevy Proctor, Nell (Arthello) Clark, Thomas S (Ramona) Proctor, George W. (Thora) Proctor, Jay (Dudley) Proctor and Kenneth (Roma) Proctor.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, October 24, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. in the Panguitch 2nd Ward Chapel, where friends may call from 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. Burial will be in the Panguitch City Cemetery. Funeral Directors: Magleby Mortuary, Richfield, Salina and Manti. Online guestbook at www.maglebymortuary.com