BIDDEFORD — Caryl B. Bowman, 79, died on Aug. 27, 2010, at Southern Maine Medical Center after declining health.

She was born in Milwaukee, Wis., on May 28, 1931, to Lester and Betty (Rubanka) Seifert. She moved to Maine in 1978, and was a member and secretary of the Maine Orchid Society, volunteered for the Foster Grandparent program in Camden for many years, enjoyed basket weaving, reading, walking and spending time with her family.

She was predeceased by her husband of 35 years, Thomas G. Bowman, who died in 1984; and her sister, Dorothy.

She is survived by four sons and one daughter, Dan Bowman of Troup, Texas, Ron Bowman of Raymond, N.H., Jerry Bowman of Dover, N.H., Mike Bowman of Sebago, and Susan Reny of Round Pond; 13 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

After cremation, a private family gathering was held on Wednesday, Sept. 1, at The Phaneuf Funeral Home, 243 Hanover Street, in Manchester, N.H. The Rev. Gary Rolph officiated the service. Burial will take place at the convenience of the family at Moss Side Cemetery in Cumberland Center.