Dec. 14, 1935 – Nov. 25, 2023
By Julie Bowen
Ron Bowen, a self-made Alaskan man, cherished his life in the Last Frontier. His profound love for Alaska resonated through his passion for commercial salmon fishing, hunting moose, dwelling in his cherished home atop the hill, and his deep adoration for his wife Kathleen Adele Bowen.
In 1962, Ron journeyed to Cordova, answering Armin Koenig’s call for assistance with his fishing boat. Two weeks of fishing alongside Armin left an indelible mark on Ron, kindling an unyielding love for fishing in Prince William Sound and the Copper River Flats. His commercial fishing journey, spanning from 1963 until the aftermath of the Exxon oil spill in 1989, saw him adeptly navigate the waters using both gill nets and seines, while owning and operating numerous fishing boats.
Before his Alaskan adventures, Ron spent 18 years as a longshoreman on Seattle’s waterfront. Post-fishing, he served as an operating engineer, diligently maintaining inactive radar sites in western Alaska. Ron’s versatile skill set encompassed construction, repair, and operation of heavy machinery, evident from his involvement in pipeline construction during the early 1970s. In his later years, he applied his mechanical prowess to construct and maintain his residence atop Buffalo Mine Road. He was a beloved neighbor always ready to help with any project and keep the roads clear of snow all winter. Ron actively participated in spill drills, contributed to the Citizen’s Academy, and served among the esteemed First Responders of AK.
An active member of the Mason Lodge, Elks Lodge, and the Order of the Amaranth, Ron and Kathleen dedicated countless volunteer hours to the Order of the Amaranth. He held esteemed positions, including Grand Royal Patron of the Grand Court of Alaska – Order of the Amaranth and Master of the Iditarod Masonic Lodge in Palmer.
Ron leaves behind his beloved wife of 42 years, Kathleen; his children Julie Bowen, Michael Bowen, Jacquelyn Bowen, and Jill Isbell; his step-daughter Susan Kelley; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He embraced life with an unwavering love for good food, feeling invincible in spirit, and an insatiable zest for life.
Ron Bowen’s legacy thrives through his enduring love for Alaska, his dedication to service, and his profound impact on all those fortunate enough to know him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by family, friends, and the communities he touched.
