Irene M. Bow

Irene Margaret (Silver) Bow, 91, of Bergen, NY, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her family, on March 29, 2025. Born on May 26, 1933, in Churubusco, NY, Irene wove a life of creativity, compassion, and love, leaving a lasting imprint on every heart she touched.
A professional quilter specializing in machine and hand appliqué, she found joy in every stitch, transforming fabric into cherished heirlooms. Her hands were always busy—not only quilting but also crocheting and crafting an array of handmade treasures, from hats and table runners to bags and more. She took particular pride in creating baby and preemie hats and mittens, which she lovingly donated to local hospitals.
Beyond her creative pursuits, Irene had a passion for fishing, camping, berry picking, and baking pies. In her younger years, she even participated in snowmobile racing. An avid euchre player, she passed down her love for cards to multiple generations, always reminding them to “be brave” as they learned the game. She was a dedicated member of Gilham Grant, a volunteer for St. Mary’s Resurrection Parish, Crossroads, and the Office of the Aging, always eager to lend a helping hand to her community.
Above all, Irene’s greatest pride was her family. She is survived by her 11 children: Debbie Zaremski, Jean Boyce, Marilyn (the late Brad) Dupree, Donald (Laurie) Bow, Ron (Diane) Bow, Randy (Christine) Bow, Cathy (Bill) Schmieder, Gloria (Gary) Martinson, Keith (Kate) Bow, Robert (the late Donna) Bow, Carolyn Bow. She was a beloved grandmother to 18 grandchildren, great-grandmother to 20, and great-great-grandmother to 3, in addition to many siblings, nieces, and nephews.
She is reunited in peace with her husband, Darrell Bow; her parents, Catherine and Lloyd Silver; and her beloved grandchildren, Kristopher Bow, Dustin Bow, Peter (wife Connie, sons Bradley and Alex) Boyce, Michael Boyce, and Kerri Schmieder.
Friends are invited to call on Friday April 4, 2025 from 4:00-7:00PM at Gilmartin Funeral Home 329-333 West Main St. Batavia, NY 14020. A 9:30AM Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday the 5th at Ascension Parish 19 Sumner St. in Batavia.
"A quilter’s legacy is woven not only in fabric but in the hearts of those she loved.” Irene’s life was a beautiful patchwork of generosity, creativity, and devotion—stitched with care like her quilts and played with charisma like her hand in euchre.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital www.stjude.org a cause close to Irene’s heart. To leave an online message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020.