Elizabeth L. "Betty" Bowen Smith, 87, of LaGrange died Saturday, Sept. 9, 2006, at Life Care Center of LaGrange.

Mrs. Smith had lived in LaGrange County for most of her life.  She had served as secretary-treasurer and co-owner of Spreuer and Son Inc. of LaGrange for more than 40 years.  She was a 1935 graduate of Shipshewana High School.  Mrs. Smith served 18 years on the board of directors of Shipshewana State Bank and many years on the board of directors of the LaGrange County Country Club.

She was born Oct. 18, 1918, in Wheeling, W.Va., to William and Floss (Eash) Morgan. She first married Robert E. Bowen on June 28, 1936, in Greencastle. He died Nov. 24, 1973. She then married Gordon E. Smith on Aug. 31, 1974, in Shipshewana. He died Oct. 24, 1980.

Surviving are two sons and daughters-in-law, Michael and Jean Bowen of LaGrange and Robert and Sharon Bowen of Shipshewana; a stepdaughter and her husband, Beth Ann and Martin Moeller of Shipshewana; a brother, Philip Spreuer of LaGrange; seven grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.  She was also preceded in death by a grandson, Edson James Bowen; four brothers; and a sister.

 Please Note: Betty Bowen-Smith is the mother of Indiana breeder Mike Bowen.  Horses bred by Bowen carry the trademark “Bow” in their registered name.  Over the years, they have been seen competing at all levels.  “Bow” horses, like Canuseeme Bow, have raced successfully at the biggest stage of harness racing, The Meadowlands.
Cards may be sent to Mike at: 1175 E. 150 N., LaGrange, IN  46761-9356