Kenneth Bowe
January 8, 1933 - July 15, 2025
Kenneth P. Bowe, age 92, of Altoona, died on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at The Classic at Hillcrest Greens in Altoona, Wisconsin surrounded by his family.
Ken was born January 8, 1933, to the late Joseph and Martha (Fanetti) Bowe in Tilden, Wisconsin where he grew up and graduated from school. In his late teens, Ken was the lead singer and guitarist for the band "The Rainbow Nightingales." While playing in the band he met his future wife, Wanda Mitchell.
From 1953-1955, he proudly served our country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.
Upon his return, he married his sweetheart, Wanda, on July 26, 1955, at Notre Dame Catholic Church in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin. They would have celebrated their 70th Wedding Anniversary this year.
Ken worked for American Material Corporation for 45 years retiring as Vice President.
The love of travel led Ken and Wanda to visit Hawaii and Nashville as well as making frequent trips to Branson, MO and the casinos of Las Vegas. They also enjoyed woodworking and crafting together for many years. He loved sports, whether he was playing golf, baseball, or bowling or being the proud grandpa cheering on his grandkids. Days spent with family on Chain Lake at their lake home were memorable times.
He is survived by his daughters, Cheri (Bill) Lennie, Lauri (Don) Borton and Dawn (Paul) Sells; sons, Randy (Lori) Bowe and Brad (Brenda) Bowe; daughter-in-law, Kelly Bowe; grandchildren, Ryan (Jen), Craig (Kelly), Joseph (Melissa), Kendra, Rachel (Jay), Amber, Briana (Brandon), Brady (Kelsey), Sara (Mike) and Hayden (McKenzie); 21 great grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Rosie Bowe, Marie Bowe, and Mickey Johnson; brother-in-law, Bud Koehler; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Ken was preceded in death by his wife, Wanda; son, Darin; 4 brothers; and 7 sisters.
For the last six years Ken lived at The Classic where he received loving care. His family is grateful and thanks all the staff (as well those of St. Croix Hospice) for their dedicated and exceptional care.
Funeral Service will be held at 12:00 Noon on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at St. Olaf Catholic Church with Father James Kurzynski officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until 11:45 at church. Entombment will be in Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum in Eau Claire. Evergreen Funeral Home is serving the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred which the family will share with organizations and charities important to Ken.
Condolences, stories, and/or memories may expressed by visiting Ken's obituary at
www.evergreenfuneralhome.com.
Published by Leader Telegram from Jul. 17 to Jul. 18, 2025.