Albuquerque Journal - January 15, 2003

H. Frank Sowers died from complications of cancer on January 12, 2003. He was born on March 7, 1923 in Waco, Texas. He is survived by Miriam Sowers (formerly Miriam Hochstettler of Findlay, Ohio), his wife of almost 59 years and the love of his life. Frank grew up in and around Chicago, IL., and graduated from La Grange High School in Chicago. He started college at Miami University of Ohio where he and Miriam met one evening while ice-skating on the frozen tennis courts. While still in college, he volunteered for the armed forces, and served in the Army under General Patton's 3rd Army. He was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for activities in the Regimental Scouts. He fought in the Battle of the Bulge in 1944. A few years ago he wrote and published a book about his experiences in World War II,"War is Not Our Destiny". After his discharge he finished college in 1949 at The University of New Mexico with a degree in Geology. He worked with the Boy Scouts of America for many years as the District Executive for SE Albuquerque and New Mexico. The job offered him the opportunity to work with men and boys organizing programs in outdoor and social skills. He was especially proud of organizing the Boy Scout Circus held at the Tingley Coliseum in 1957, with the largest cast to date. From 1961 to 1980 he ran Sowers Wood Design and Symbol Gallery of Art in Old Town where he designed custom furniture, and practiced free-lance photography. From 1980 to present, he crafted pieces of original small wood sculptures. Frank and Miriam were avid travelers. They enjoyed selling their artwork from New York to Hawaii while enjoying the country and each other. In addition to his love of travel, Frank loved driving and seeing beautiful scenery, trout fishing, the outdoors and sports. He is survived by his wife, Miriam Sowers; sons, Craig Sowers and Keith Sowers; grandchildren, Cara Ray, Marc Sowers, Raemy Sowers and Jeffery Sowers; great-grandchildren, Luke and Drew Sowers and Caitlyn Ray, all of Albuquerque. Frank requested that there be no formal services. Arrangements by Direct Funeral Services, 2919 4th St. NW. Albuq. 505-343-8008.