Mark W Bowman: 1941 – 2024
Mark Watson Bowman, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle and friend, passed away peacefully on November 14, 2024 in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Born on August 11, 1941 in Grinnell, Iowa – Mark led a life marked by dedication to God, family, community and service.
Mark met his wife, Delores, in 1959 at his brother Dale’s wedding to Delores’ sister, Darlene. They started courting in 1961 and were married on December 4, 1964 at Delores’ parents house in Mount Ayr, Iowa. This December marks 60 years of marriage and dedication to each other.
Mark accepted God at a young age and remained faithful throughout his life. Mark moved from Iowa to Wyoming in 1959 to work on the family farm where they raised cattle and crops. His commitment to agriculture continued as he ranched and farmed until 1992. In 1979, along with farming, he began a new chapter as a school bus driver. A role he embraced with great affection for the children he transported. For an incredible 46 years, Mark was a beloved figure in the lives of many students, whether on daily routes or activity runs. He earned their respect and love through his warm personality and humor. Mark was an active member in his community, serving for 11 years on the Laramie County School District #2 School Board. His passion for education and commitment to the betterment of his community were evident in all that he did. Mark’s personality shone brightly through his love for people, especially children. He was known for his ability to make others laugh with his playful jokes, creating joy in the lives of those around him.
A man of strong character, Mark proudly served in the United States Army from 1964 to 1969. Stationed at Fort Carson and Fort Sam Houston as a corpsman where he worked as a hospital attendant, caring for wounded soldiers and their families during a time of conflict. Mark was proud of his service and could be seen wearing his Army Veteran ballcap or his cowboy hat with his Army pin wherever he went. His service exemplified his compassion and dedication to others.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Delores M. Bowman; his son, Jerry Bowman of Gillette, Wyoming; his daughters, Sherry Bowman of Carpenter, Wyoming and Jennifer Heupel of Laramie, Wyoming; and his brother-in-law, Kenneth McKay with wife, Shirley McKay. Mark took immense pride in being a grandfather to five grandchildren: Jessica, Tyler, Eryn, Cassidy and Jason. He also cherished his four great-grandchildren: Wyatt, Grant, Hanna, and Clayton. He is also survived by his two brothers, Max Bowman of Elgin, Nebraska, and Jack Bowman of Pine Bluffs, Wyoming, along with numerous nieces and nephews who will remember him for his kindness and spirit.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Ruth Bowman; in-laws, Paul and Margaret McKay; his brother-and sister-in-law, Dale and Darlene Bowman; sisters-in-law, Goldie Bowman and Bertha Bowman; son-in-law, Neal Heupel; brother-in-law, Richard McKay and Donald McKay; along with several grandparents; great-grandparents; and other members on both his and Delores’ sides of the family.
Mark Watson Bowman will be dearly missed and fondly remembered for his generosity, humor, and deep love for his family and friends. His legacy of service and laughter will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Services will be held at a later date.
Verne J. Felton: 1945 – 2024
Verne J. Felton, 79, passed away on November 15, 2024, with family by his side after an extended illness.
He was a Cheyenne resident for 54 years. He is survived by his wife, LaLa; daughter, Shelby (Greg); son, Bret (Toni); grandson, Garrett; granddaughters: Vee, Mikayla, and Madelyn; sister, Kathleen (Wayne); brother, John (Susan); and numerous nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later time. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Cheyenne Frontier Days Scholarship Fund.
Rosemarie “Rose” Hernandez: 1942 – 2024
Rosemarie “Rose” Hernandez, age 82, passed away peacefully on November 18, 2024, at the Davis Hospice Center in Cheyenne, Wyoming.
Born Augusta Erneore Wegner on January 29, 1942, in Brandenburg, Germany, Rose’s early years were marked by hardship, as she was orphaned during World War II. At the age of 10, she was lovingly adopted by her Great Aunt Gustl and Uncle Fritz Amberger, who had relocated to St. Clair Shores, Michigan. It was at this time that her name was changed to Rosemarie Amberger. Rose graduated from South Lake High School in St. Clair Shores and went on to build a life filled with love, resilience, and a deep commitment to her family.
In 1988, Rose had the opportunity to return to Germany when her daughter Kim’s family was stationed there. Rose spent two wonderful years in her homeland, creating cherished memories with her loved ones. In 1991, after Kim’s family received military orders, they relocated to Homestead Air Force Base in Florida. Rose’s life took another beautiful turn. It was there that she met the love of her life, Lasaro (Larry) Hernandez. Their meeting was nothing short of serendipitous. While walking his dog, Princess #1, Larry crossed paths with Rose’s grandson, Kasey, who noticed “the man and his dog.” Larry was visiting his daughter, Lisa, who lived on the same Air Force base. A casual coffee date was arranged, and that simple meeting blossomed into a love story that spanned 32 years.
In 1991, Rose left Florida to begin her life with Larry in North Platte, Nebraska, where he had lived for most of his life. In 2006, they moved to Cheyenne, Wyoming, to be closer to Larry’s children. Rose was a dedicated homemaker who cherished spending time with her family and caring for her grandchildren. She loved playing Keno, enjoyed visiting casinos, and was known for her warm, loving spirit. In April of 2020, Rose and Larry moved in with their daughter, Connie and son-in-law, Andre, where they were lovingly cared for and doted on. It was during this time that Rose met her best friend, Michelle Mechels, who was their in-home caregiver while Andre and Connie were at work. It was during this time that Rose formed a special bond with Michelle. Michelle’s kindness and companionship brought Rose great comfort, and she fondly referred to Michelle as her best friend.
Rose shared an extraordinary and loving bond with her granddaughters, Kylee Crofts and Jessee Torres. She and Larry would eagerly pick them up from school, treating them to an after-school snack and slipping them a few bucks, always making them feel special. The girls loved having spa days with Grandma Rose, where they would pamper her with manicures, facials, and all sorts of fun activities.
Some of their most cherished memories with Rose were of the simple, yet heartwarming moments—like when she made them Mickey Mouse-shaped pancakes, peeled the skin off apples for them, and served their favorite snacks. Whether it was taking them to the park or watching their favorite movies together, Rose’s love and warmth were a constant presence in their lives, and these granddaughters hold those moments close to their hearts.
Rose is survived by her children: Kim Kirk, Sally (Bill) McDaniel, and Robert Lee Farmer, all of Michigan; her stepchildren: Angie (Rick) Lara, Lisa (Glenn) Reed, Connie (Andre) Torres, Alex Hernandez, Renee Hernandez, and Lesa Perez. She also leaves behind a legacy of grandchildren, including: Kasey Kirk, Hunter Kirk, Nicole (Matt) Hughes, Eric D’Aigle, Jessica D’Aigle, Samantha D’Aigle, and Dakota McDaniel, all of Michigan; and David, Tiffany, Ashley, Mia, Matteo, Kortnee, Tyler, Jeffrey, Tiffanee, Xander, Jessee, Kylee, Joshua, Joseph, Kayla, Trust, Tristan, Taylor, Joe, and Juana. Rose was also blessed with many great-grandchildren: Maxxwhel Calleja, Juliana, Markus, Ethan, Callie, Josie, Lillie, Laylee, Kaston, Aria, Jaxsen, Remi; and numerous nieces and nephews, and her best friend, Michelle Mechels, all of whom she held close to her heart.
Rose was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Lasaro Hernandez; her parents, Gustl and Fritz Amberger; her grandson, Donte’ Lara; and great-granddaughter, Angelina Harrison.
The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to Michele Michels, for her many visits to Rose, after dad passed, which brought her great comfort. Rose leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Vigil for our beloved Grandma Rose, will be held on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at 2 p.m. at the Wiederspahn-Radomsky Chapel. Funeral Liturgy will be held on Friday, November 22, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at Wiederspahn-Radomsky Chapel. Burial to follow at Cheyenne Memorial Gardens in the interment chapel. A reception will immediately follow the burial at Hartmann Hall (St. Mary’s Cathedral).
The family invites you to share your favorite memories of Rose as we honor her remarkable life and enduring legacy.
Gladys A. Watson: 1935 – 2024
Gladys A. Watson, a beloved figure in her community, passed away on November 16, 2024 in Cheyenne, Wyoming, at the age of 88. Born on December 8, 1935, in Beatrice, Nebraska, Gladys was known for her vibrant spirit and dedication to both her profession and her passions throughout her life.
She enjoyed a multifaceted career, beginning as a teacher where she inspired generations of students with her love for learning. Her impact on education was profound, but it was perhaps her role as a feisty Walmart greeter for 15 years that brought her the most joy. It was in this position that she greeted countless shoppers with her warm smile and friendly demeanor, making every visit to the store feel like a personal encounter.
Music played an integral role in Gladys’s life. A talented pianist, she not only enjoyed playing but also shared her passion by tutoring piano lessons to aspiring musicians. Her love for music enriched her life and the lives of those around her, creating a lasting legacy of harmony and joy.
Gladys was a proud member of the Wyoming Fiddler’s Club in Casper, Wyoming, where she contributed her time and talents for many years. Her involvement in this community organization exemplified her commitment to enhancing the cultural life of her surroundings.
She is survived by her sons, Bill Watson and Jim Watson; her grandchildren, Lacee Lewis and William Brandon Watson; as well as multiple great-grandchildren who brought her immense pride and happiness.
Gladys A. Watson’s lively spirit and unwavering dedication to her family, music, and community will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
