Siobhan Catherine Bokhari

Siobhan Catherine Bokhari passed away on March 8. She was an amazingly gifted artist with her distinctive work spanning oil paintings, drawing and sculpture. Her body of work included figurative, landscapes, abstractions and whimsical. Her art was featured in galleries on the East and West coasts. She had a deep knowledge of art history, and as a professor taught many students not only the various techniques but also the context of various art movements in history. Highly creative and prolific, she leaves a substantial body of work. She was an indefatigable supporter of emerging and outside artists. She received her Master of Fine Arts from the Art Institute of Chicago.

She was born in Shirley, Massachusetts, and grew up primarily in New Jersey. She was married to her husband, Wasiq, for 24 years, They lived in the San Francisco Bay Area before moving to Bainbridge Island six years ago. She loved the natural beauty and culture of the Pacific Northwest, and was an enthusiastic hiker and explorer of its natural wonders. She traveled extensively throughout the US and many other countries. Long early morning walks, reading, dancing, singing and being with nature made her very happy. She loved witty one-liners and corny jokes. She cared about preserving the natural beauty of our planet, endangered animals and biodiversity. Deeply spiritual and curious, she pursued an understanding of the sciences and all the great spiritual traditions. Her sparkling intelligence, sense of humor, infectious smile and genuine care lit up everyone she met. She would always go the extra mile for the people she cared for and encouraged them to achieve their dreams. She always navigated her own course and was loved deeply.

She is survived by her husband, sisters, brothers, nieces and nephews. Her family, friends and husband miss her dearly. She will live on in their hearts and memories. Her legacy will continue in the form of her support for the arts and animals.

Do not stand at my grave and weep

I am not there. I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow.

I am the diamond glints on snow.

I am the sunlight on ripened grain.

I am the gentle autumn rain.

When you awaken in the morning's hush

I am the swift uplifting rush

Of quiet birds in circled flight.

I am the soft stars that shine at night.

Do not stand at my grave and cry;

I am not there. I did not die.

- Claire Hamer

Arrangements are entrusted to Cook Family Funeral Home of Bainbridge Island.