The Robert and Frances Bowe and Fred R. Bowe Memorial Fund was established to support nature-related initiatives throughout Chippewa County.

Jackie Bernier stated, "In July 2002, my brother Fred passed away.  It was a difficult time for my family as we struggled with our loss. We were all raised on a dairy farm in Chippewa County and Fred developed a deep love for the land at an early age. Although he left the area after college, he returned in 1997 and reconnected with the place that had shaped him. He spent countless hours hiking local parks and forests, fishing the surrounding lakes, and sharing stories about farming with friends and relatives."

"With this in mind, my sisters and I felt there could be no more meaningful way to honor Fred's life than by creating a field-of-interest fund through the Community Foundation." Said Jackie. "When our mother, Frances Bowe Scheidler, passed away in March 2003, we knew she would want the memorials given in her name to become part of the Fred Bowe Memorial Fund. Mom shared Fred's appreciation for the outdoors. She loved fishing and found joy in nurturing the land through her garden."

As the fund has grown, the Foundation has been able to distribute earnings to support local nature-focused projects. Grants have been awarded to organizations such as the Chippewa County Land Conservancy, the Lake Wissota Improvement and Protection Association, the Lake Wissota Garden Club, and the Beaver Creek Reserve for environmental and educational programs. These are just a few examples of the meaningful work supported through this fund.

"In partnering with the Community Foundation, our family has found a lasting and meaningful way to honor two people who held a deep respect for nature and the land. Through this fund, the values that shaped our mother Frances and our brother Fred will continue to benefit Chippewa County for generations to come." Said Jackie.