Cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, Haroleen Sue Bethel-Bowlan passed away on July 24, 2018 in Oakhurst California.
Haroleen was born on January 10, 1949, the eldest child of Velma Chepo and Harold Bethel. She grew up in North Fork with siblings Sandra, Robert, and Brenda. Haroleen met Frank Smith at Sierra High School and together they had three children, Michelle, Frankie, and Natalie Smith.
In 1981 Haroleen married William Bowlan and the couple relocated to Oakhurst, where they raised daughter Jodie Bowlan, and stepchildren Michael and Jewelan Bowlan became part of the blended family.
Haroleen chose to work in the medical field where she remained until retirement.
She loved quilting, basket making, ran a taco stand and made regalia for dancers. Haroleen was a beloved board member for the Sierra Mono Museum, the California Basket Weaver Association, and a respected Chairwoman for Indian Fair Days and Pow Wow.
She took great pride in her culture and it was very important for her to share her knowledge. She touched many lives and will be greatly missed by her family, friends and the community.
Haroleen was predeceased by her father Harold, brother Robert, sister Brenda, stepson Michael Bowlan, and grandson Henry Herbert Allbrittan.
She is survived by her husband, children, 11 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.
A fund has been established to help the family with final expenses.
The community is invited to a viewing on Thursday, Aug. 2, from 3 – 8 p.m., at Palm Memorial-Sierra Funeral Chapel, located at 49269 Road 426, Oakhurst, Ca 93643.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
