Traverse City, MI - Ila Marie Stowe, 85, passed away peacefully in her home in Traverse City on September 17, 2025.

Ila was born on August 30, 1940, in Traverse City, to the late Carl and Irene (Lautner) Skiver. She had fond memories of her childhood and their family farm. Ila graduated from Traverse City Central High School.

Ila married the love of her life and best friend, Larry Stowe, on Dec. 29, 1956. From then on, the two were inseparable and were married for 63 years when Larry passed away in 2020. Together, Ila and Larry, created a beautiful family and home, which they took great pride in. She spent most of her working years with Larry at Standard Electric.

Ila wore her heart on her sleeve, was very thoughtful, present, organized, loved spending time with her family, knitting, crocheting, gardening, hosting gatherings around the holidays, cooking and baking, watching her resident birds and animals, playing cards, completing puzzles with special family and friends, following her great grandkids games both in-person and online, planning and enjoying the Larry Stowe Picnic/fall clean up, making cards for birthdays, anniversaries, and all milestones. She will be remembered for her kind heart and always being her family's number one supporter.

Ila leaves behind an amazing legacy and is survived by her children; Sandra (Dale) Roelofs, Annette (Mark) Counsell, and Daniel Stowe. She is also survived by her grandchildren; Jason (Tonya) Roelofs, Angie (Kevin) Kopriva, Alyssa (Matt) Knust, and Ashley (Dan) Westover, along with her great-grandkids; Austin, Cam, Karly, Ryan, Mason, Alexa, Owen, and Brayden. Ila is also survived by several special in-laws, nieces, nephews, and family friends.

Ila was preceded in death by her husband, Larry, her son and daughter in law, David and Brenda (Roelofs) Stowe. Also waiting to welcome her home were her parents; sister, June; sister, Gertrude; brother, Allen; and brother, Leroy.

A celebration of life will be held in honor of Ila at a later date.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, Covell-Traverse City Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com