We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Annette Phyllis (Bowers) Gapp on March 15, 2024. Annette went home to her Lord and Savior after suffering a stroke on March 6, 2024.
Annette’s unwavering lifelong faith brings to mind a quote from Charles Spurgeon: “A Bible that’s falling apart usually belongs to someone who isn’t.” She left behind a leather-bound Bible that reflected daily use since her days at San Jose Bible College. Her faith was a North Star that guided her walk and inspired deep compassion for others. She will be missed by all who loved her.
Born Oct. 7, 1953 to Phyllis Lucille and Leroy Donald Bowers, Annette was known for her faithful, energetic, and giving spirit. Annette graduated from Creswell High School in 1971 after being voted “Most Likely to Succeed” by her peers.
Annette went on to be a remarkably successful homemaker, master gardener, and small farm owner. For 30 years, Annette sold lavender to E.Z. Orchards Farm Market where you can still buy lavender milkshakes made with her organic buds. Annette was a devoted lap swimmer for 48 years at the Stayton Memorial Pool.
On June 12, 1976, Annette married Steve J. Gapp at the Friendly Street Church of God in Eugene, Ore. Annette was a loving mother to Jenny (Andrew), Travis, and Megan, all of whom were present at her passing.
In 2009, she graduated from Oregon State University with a Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sport Science. Annette could be found at local markets and orchards picking fresh fruits and vegetables for her annual canning season. An old-fashioned girl to the end, if you couldn’t reach her on the land-line you knew she was out in the yard and garden. Her exceptional work ethic cultivated years of fresh produce and flowers which she generously shared with friends and family.
Annette was often seen driving around the Stayton area in one of her two Plymouth Dusters, one of which she owned for over 50 years. Annette was passionate about tea, antiques, sewing, baking, and decorating. Her home is a community icon, where thousands of daffodils bloom every spring. Over the years, Annette received a multitude of compliments from passersby.
Annette was a rare breed, just like the Hereford cattle she so dearly loved. The Oregon Coast was a special place of refuge for Annette, where she loved to kick up her heels on the beach and collect seashells.
In addition to her children, Annette is survived by her husband, Steve; grandchildren, Parker, Ryan, and Esther; sister Barb (Jim) of Springfield, brother Jim (Teresa) of Cottage Grove, brother Don (Vicky) of Creswell; numerous nieces and nephews, cousins, aunts, and friends.
The family wishes to thank the ER, ICU, and Trauma Care Teams at Salem Hospital for their compassionate care during her final days.
Donations to People’s Church of Salem can be made in her honor.
A public memorial service will be held on Monday, March 25, 2024 at 1 p.m. at Smith Lund Mills Funeral Chapel in Cottage Grove. A private graveside interment will follow at Creswell Pioneer Cemetery. Arrangements in the care of Smith Lund Mills Funeral Chapel and Crematorium.
