Ernest J. Clowes

1935 - 2025

Ernest John Clowes, 89, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 13, 2025. Born in Pittsburgh to Dorothea M. Wilson and Edwin A. Clowes, Jack graduated from New Kensington High School in 1953 and enlisted in the Navy shortly thereafter, serving as a machinist. After beginning his career at Westinghouse, Jack spent more than 30 years with the packaging division of ALCOA, where his creativity and craftsmanship earned him multiple U.S. patents for food and beverage can design. He later worked as a consultant, sharing his expertise both in the U.S. and internationally. True to his commitment to lifelong learning, he earned an executive MBA certificate from the University of Notre Dame following his retirement. Throughout his life, he stayed active in his community as a member of American Legion Post 868, St. Margaret Mary Serra Club, Lower Burrell Fire Company #3, and as a long-time Boy Scout leader. Jack built things with his hands woodworking, metalworking, gardening and even more with his heart. He married Irene Falenski in 1959. Together they shared 65 years filled with family, friendship, hard work, and travel including a cherished trip to Italy with lifelong friends that remained a favorite memory. Jack's five grandchildren were the light of his life and the heart of his later years. He took great pride in each of them and loved sharing his time, his tools, and his quiet wisdom. He showed them what it means to create, to care, and to show up with love. He is survived by his beloved wife, Irene; his children, John (Gina) Clowes, Jim (Cindy) Clowes, and Cheryl (Bruce) Siarkowski; his grandchildren, Steven, Daniel, Lauren, Andrew, and John; his sister, Florence Thorhauer; and his brother, Edwin Robert (Cheryl) Clowes. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Raymond 'Bud' Clowes; and his faithful Labrador companion, Sparky. Friends will be received from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m., Friday, May 16, 2025, at THE RUSIEWICZ OF LOWER BURRELL FUNERAL HOME, 3124 Leechburg Road, at Alder St. Christian funeral Mass will be at 10 a.m., on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at St. Margaret Mary Church. Burial will follow in Greenwood Memorial Park, Lower Burrell. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations made to the St. Margaret Mary Church Food Bank, 3055 Leechburg Road, Lower Burrell, PA 15068. www.RusiewiczFH.com