Rowena Miriam Hale

Rowena was born in Fennville, Michigan on October 13, 1916, the daughter of S. Maurice and Doris (Schoenlaub) Sheffer. She graduated from Saugatuck High School in 1934, as class Valedictorian. Rowena graduated from the University of Michigan in 1938. She taught high school Latin and English in Cassopolis, Michigan. She served as USO Army hostess during WWII, where she met her husband, Leon Hale. Rowena and Leon were married on August 16, 1942 in Saugatuck, Michigan.

Rowena and Leon owned and operated Hales Market (now Tom's Market) in Hastings from the early 1950's through the mid seventies. She was a member of  Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Study of the Word  (Lutheran), Women's Club, Business and Professional Women's  club, and The American Association of University Women. Rowena was a volunteer for the Literacy Council, Pennock Hospital and Thornapple Manor.

Rowena was preceded in death by her husband, Leon Hale, in 1994, grandaughter, JoMaureen Cavanaugh Fisher in 2010, brothers: Bruce Sheffer of Ocala, Florida and Wilfred Sheffer of SanTee, California.

Rowena is survived by one son, Leon M. (Susan) Hale of Grand Rapids, two daughters, Lynne E. (Thomas) Cavanaugh of Franklinton, NC and Doris L. Hale (J. Jaymin) of Hastings, five grandsons and five great-grandchildren.

Respecting her wishes, cremation has taken place.

Funeral Arrangements;
Thursday, May 2, 2013
Visitation:  10 am - 11 am
Memorial Service:  11 am
Emmanuel Episcopal Church
315 W. Center St.
Hastings, MI  49058
The Very Rev. Grechen Weller, officiating