Kristi Bowman

Kris Bowman, 69, of Brainerd and formerly Grand Rapids, passed away at home on February 15, 2024, surrounded by family, after a hard fight with cancer. She was admired for her sharp wit and sense of humor; she could find the funny side of almost any situation! She loved to bake for family and for anyone in the community who needed a sweet treat. She and her husband Pete loved camping and the outdoors, especially their seasonal spot at Dixon Lake Resort, where they summered for twenty years. She was an enthusiastic presence at all her grandkids’ many sporting events. Kris was a 1973 graduate of Grand Rapids High School and of the nursing program at Itasca Community College. She worked in healthcare throughout her career, but her real calling was as a designer and craftswoman, as her (and her daughter’s) homes—creative, beautiful, and ever-changing—are wonderful examples.  

Kris is preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Delores Oakley; brother and sister-in-law Bob and Denise Oakley; mother-in-law Blanche Bowman, and brothers-in-law Phil, Mike and Dennis Bowman. She is survived by her devoted husband Pete, loving daughter Sascha (Andy) Hess, Pine River; grandsons Josh VanLue, Brainerd, and Zach VanLue, Duluth; and granddaughter Kenadi Hess, Pine River. Also by brothers Steve (Kathy) Oakley, Mendota Heights; Tim (Jenine) Oakley, Grand Rapids; Jeff Oakley, Cohasset; and Jerry (Janice) Oakley, Brainerd; as well as numerous beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends. At Kris’s request, there will be no memorial gathering.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Brenny Family Funeral Chapel, Baxter.