Sophie Oresic Bower passed away Sunday, March 24, 2024 at Cedarhurst of Springfield. Sophie was born in East St. Louis, Illinois to Nicholas and Mary Oresic, one of six children, all of whom preceded her in death.

She attended St. Teresa Academy, East St. Louis, Ill., graduating in 1946.

Following graduation, Sophie worked for Southwestern Bell of St. Louis as a switchboard operator and later as a supervisor.

After marriage to Grover Bower on September 3, 1949, she became employed by Garrison-Wagner Co. of St. Louis.

With her husband's job transfer to Springfield in 1964, Sophie became a full-time homemaker.

Sophie and her husband enjoyed camping, fishing, playing cards and entertaining friends.

She was an active member of first Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and later holy Trinity Parish. She was a member of the Legion of Mary and also a guild at her parish.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Grover, in 2019. She is survived by daughter, Patricia Gilleland (Gary Libby); grandson, Thomas Gilleland (Cristin); granddaughter Rhianna Dunn; great-granddaughter Nora Gilleland and many nieces and nephews.

The family wants to thank the healthcare professionals at Cedarhurst and Seasons Hospice for their loving and compassionate care.

Private Graveside Services will be held at Missouri Veterans Cemetery.