Maryann Connell and Christina Zimmerman, Pesticide Management Division
Editor’s Note: The Pesticide Management Division lost a valued and beloved colleague on Nov. 22 when Catherine Bowman passed away at her home. She was a management analyst with the division’s Administrative Section and supported the Compliance Program. Two of her division coworkers, Christina (Tina) Zimmerman and Maryann Connell contributed to this tribute to Catherine.
Catherine was a strong and courageous woman, and a woman of strong faith. While her life was full of challenges, she always met them head-on and with courage. We had a few discussions about courage; feeling the fear and doing it anyway. In that regard, Catherine not only demonstrated her courage, but helped others find theirs.
Catherine’s customer service expertise was vast. Her previous career experience included working in the childcare and insurance industries. At the Alaska State Patrol, she was the primary assistant to a region commander. She also worked for a conservation district in Oregon.
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| Catherine laughs as coworker Haydee Pingol looks on. |
Catherine started her 20-year Washington State career at the Department of Licensing in 2000, and promoted up in that agency. She came to WSDA in March 2008.
Catherine was also a grandmother and mother, and her family was the important focus in her life.
She was a skilled homemaker, with the knowledge of a pioneer woman. She took joy in creating a wholesome home environment for her grandchildren, and took pride in building her little family farm and garden.
Many of us were privileged to learn about the latest rabbit capers, building the turkey pen, and the night-time escapades of her prized pet, Ms. Goose. She loved being active, whether it was riding horses or bicycles, or baking, canning, or building another shelter for her animals.
“With common sense, extensive experience, a strident voice, a strong opinion, and a determined step, Catherine was a force that helped keep our division on task,” noted Chery Sullivan, manager of the Dairy Nutrient Management Program.
“Catherine was also a joy; she laughed easily and frequently at the silliness of life and work. When she graced my space, we generally talked about life on the farm…chasing wayward livestock, favorite heirloom apples, preserving garden harvests and family traditions. Catherine was a pioneer in her heart and deeds, and I miss her.”
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| Catherine and Maryann Connell. |
“Catherine was a valued colleague,” said Tim Schultz, acting manager of the Pesticide Compliance Program.
“She kept us in line as to due dates and getting documents submitted properly. Her laughter was contagious. She enjoyed my chocolate deliveries. Catherine helped make the world a better place. She is missed, but her influence will continue.”
Over the last five years, we shared a lot of conversations and laughs in our day-to-day interactions, or just dealing with life’s unforeseen challenges. I’m going to miss that voice in the next cubicle for a long, long time.
In summary: The Pesticide Management Division lost a valued and beloved colleague on Nov. 22 when Catherine Bowman passed away at her home. Catherine was a strong and courageous woman, a grandmother and mother, who took pride in building her little family farm and garden. Two of her division coworkers provided a tribute to Catherine for the Insider.
