Ronald Gene Bowen, age 90, of Elgin, IL, passed away on February 15, 2025. He was born August 14, 1934 in Freeport, IL to his loving parents, Virgil and Wilma (née Boyd) Bowen.

Ron attended University of Illinois-Champaign, where he earned a bachelor's degree in architecture, as well as a master’s degree in architectural engineering. He was the principal architect and co-founder of Bowen, Williamson, Zimmerman Architectural Practice in Madison.

Ron met his wife, Karen, at the university when he was working as a busboy at the sorority house she lived in. They were married 64 years before her passing in November 2024.

During his career, Ron designed many award-winning buildings, including the University of Wisconsin-Madison Law School, as well as his own home. One of his greatest accomplishments was being named to the College of Fellows for the American Institute of Architects.

Ron had a strong work ethic and a professional demeanor. He also had a good sense of humor and was charming and gentlemanly. He loved spending time with his family.

Ron enjoyed fishing, hunting with his springer spaniels, golfing, sports cars, and spending time at his cabin on Blue Lake near Minocqua, WI.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents; and his wife, Karen Kobes Bowen. He is survived by his children, Tori (Paul) Lewis, Sara (Greg) Spaight, and Kip (Elizabeth) Bowen; grandchildren, Andrew (Pam) Germanetti, Rebecca (Jared) Venier, Scott (Gabrielle) Germanetti, and Benjamin (Victoria) Bowen; and great-grandchildren, Emilia Venier, Linnea Venier, and Isabelle Gotangco-Germanetti.

Interment will be private.

Final arrangements entrusted to Symonds-Madison Funeral Home. For more information, call 847-741-1128.