Joan (Pancer) Bowen, 92, of High Ridge died April 25, 2026. Mrs. Bowen was a member of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church of High Ridge since 1960, serving in the Ladies Sodality and the food pantry. She was known for her patience, devotion and the warmth she shared with others and animals. She had a special fondness for dogs, though she cared for creatures in her neighborhood as if they were her own. She loved gardening, being by the water, fishing, cooking and baking. Most of all, she loved spending time with family and friends, sharing laughter and stories. Born Jan. 21, 1934, in St. Louis, she was the daughter of the late Leo J. and Helen N. (Banach) Pancer.
She was preceded in death by her husband: Oscar L. Bowen.
She is survived by a child: Oscar Bowen of High Ridge; siblings: Don Pancer of Drake, Chris (Ed) Jensen of St. Louis and Sandy (Steve) Gaydos of St. Louis; and many other family members and friends.
She also was preceded in death by a child: Dennis "Eddie" Bowen.
A memorial Mass will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to the Stray Rescue of St. Louis at strayrescue.org, Masses or any charity of the donor's choice. Arrangements are under the direction of Fieser Funeral Home in Fenton.