Cindy L. Bowman

Cindy Lee (Lorenz) (Rothbauer) Bowman of Eau Claire passed away at her father’s house in the early morning hours of Tuesday, July 23 at the age of 60 due to long-term diabetic complications.  She passed peacefully in her sleep.
She was born on August 16, 1963 to Larry Lorenz and Bonnie (Lorenz) Whitney of Eau Claire, WI and was the oldest daughter of two children.  She graduated from Eau Claire Memorial High School in 1981 and then attended one and a half years at UW-Stout.  After that, she began her journey of recovery in May, 1987.  Everyone who knew her was aware of how important it was to her work her 12-step program.  She worked many years at various stores in the retail industry which allowed her occasional opportunities to relocate to Minnesota and Michigan.

Cindy is survived by her mother, Bonnie Whitney of Eau Claire, Father Larry Lorenz and step-mother Joan Lorenz, her special friend Kevin Carroll along with three ex-husbands, Steve Rothbauer, Michael Bowman and Ralph Lebeter.  Sister Jenn Lorenz (Marvin Jefferson) of Savage, Minnesota and step-brothers Luke and Jacob Myhers.

Cindy was an avid reader and always had her nose in a book.  In fact, whenever possible, she swapped books with her mom and sister. She was a “lifer” when it came to scrapbooking and like with all things, she turned her obsession and love for scrapping into a small card making business often selling cards to many of Jenn’s friends who always clamored for more.  She even convinced her sister to take up scrapbooking over 20 years ago, which culminated in multiple scrap “friend” groups and a rotation of long weekend retreats in Wisconsin and Minnesota to laugh, scrap and enjoy the company of wonderful friends.  Cindy was always voted the most talkative and least productive of every group because she was so meticulous about each and every page between her chats and long-winded stories.  She was never able to get directly to the point, but always had to include color commentary to ensure that everyone had all the pertinent details!  She was an avid NASCAR fan, especially if it involved Jeff Gordon.  Cindy and Jenn enjoyed many road trips in the late 90’s with Mom and Aunt Madie to see the June race in Michigan.   This road trip had to include cherry Twizzler bites and “sammiches” for the long haul. But everyone lamented about the long lines to leave the Irish Hills after the race!
Anyone who met Cindy knew of her gentle spirit and desire to help anyone and everyone.  She opened her heart and even her home to people in need. She always enjoyed traveling and had the opportunity to explore many exotic locations, including two amazing cruises with her “favorite” sister!

She is proceeded in death by her paternal and maternal grandparents, many aunts and uncles and most recently her close cousin Kim Cline who passed on July 11.  Cindy and Kim were always together growing up being only a few months apart and going to high school and college together.  In fact attending Kim’s funeral is the reason Cindy was in town and staying at her dad’s house.
She positively impacted everyone she met with her warm smile and wonderful hugs, even through her own struggles.  But she is now at peace and her spirit is carried away on the wings of a butterfly.

A memorial service will take place at 12:00 Noon on Tuesday, July 30, 2024 at Hulke Family Funeral Home. Pastor Tim Stein will officiate. Visitation will be held at the funeral home that morning from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 12:00 noon.

Friends and family may offer condolences online at www.hulkefamilyfh.com.

Hulke Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 3209 Rudolph Road, Eau Claire, WI 54701 is assisting the family with the arrangements.   

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