Judith Hertenstein Bowen

Judith Hertenstein Bowen was born in Indianapolis, IN, on September 2, 1939, to Wayne and Lucille Hertenstein, who preceded her in death. She graduated from Shortridge High School in Indianapolis. She went on to study Education with an Art minor, and graduated from Miami University in 1961, where she was an Alpha Chi Omega. She was an elementary education teacher for many years in both the central coast of California and Indianapolis, and eventually owned and ran her own preschool for a period of time.

Judy was instrumental in the founding of Bowen Engineering Corporation in 1967 with her then husband, Bob Bowen. She served all of the accounting department functions for the first five years of the company’s existence, and continued to play an active role in the company through the early 1980’s.

She spent much of her life dedicated to charitable causes; first as a volunteer in her children’s schools, supporter of youth sports and poolside cheerleader at competitive swim meets. Her love of children and concern for others continued while serving as President of Children’s Bureau Auxiliary, and delivering Meals on Wheels weekly with her beloved sister Karen, for eighteen years.

A study of art blossomed into a mastery of beauty created by Judy. Her treasure of artwork lives on in the homes of family and friends near and far. Judy took pride in displaying her works at the Indiana State Fair, and in the Hoosier Art Salon and CCA Galleries, where she was a member. Her family takes pride in all of her work, several with blue ribbons still attached. But Judy took most pride in the actual creation of her projects, skillfully seeing them come to life. She could later tell you any detail about each creation, with great clarity and joy. Another passion, and often a subject of her art, were beautiful flowers. Judy served as Treasurer and President of the Spade and Trowel Garden Club of Indianapolis.

Also an intellectual, Judy’s love of reading and research were ritual in her life. The Wall Street Journal, The Economist, or historical fiction could be seen on her table most any day. She armed herself not with judgments or vocal opinion, but with a deep contemplation and appreciation for everything. Her bright and mathematical brain also gifted Judy with a love and winning talent for the game of bridge, which she enjoyed with friends and neighbors for many years. Her favorite bridge partner in recent years was her dear companion Jim Hardin, who survives.

Judy is survived by her caring sister and brother-in-law Karen and Lloyd Query; children Kris Bowen (Mark Bowell), and Doug Bowen (Julie); grandchildren Max and Jack Roberts, and Ali and Bryce Bowen; nieces, Jennifer Query (Sue Nye), Megan Query-Roth (Philip), and nephew Jake Query; grand-nephew and nieces Charlie, Zoey and Luci Roth. All of the children in Judy’s life brought a certain sparkle to her eye, unique to each child. Cousins also survive.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Children’s Bureau of Indianapolis or Meals on Wheels.

Visitation will be Monday, January 18, 2016 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Flanner and Buchanan-Broad Ripple. Services will be Tuesday, January 19, 2016 at 1 p.m. at the funeral center.