Obituary of Kenneth O Rowell Sr.

Bangor—Kenneth O. Rowell, SMSgt Retired, passed away May 30, 2019 with his loving family by his side.  He was born December 13, 1928, in Bangor to Orman and Marion (Gerall) Rowell.  He was the husband of the late Kathleen (Dwyer) Rowell.

Ken grew up attending Bangor schools, graduating from Bangor High School, Class of 1947.  He was an original member of the Maine Air National Guard and attended the very first drill while still a senior in high school.  He attended and graduated from the N.C.O. Academy and received an Associate Degree in Aircraft Power Plant Technology.  He was called to active duty in the Korean War.  He served with the 132^nd and the 49^th Fighter Squadrons.  Upon discharge from active duty, he served faithfully in the Maine Air National Guard, retiring in 1988.

On June 6, 1952, at 11:05 PM, Ken met the love of his life, Kay.  They married January 14, 1953, and were together for 64 years.  They raised four children and enjoyed family time at camp in West Penobscot.  After their retirement, Ken and Kay spent many winters in Florida enjoying the sunshine, good friends, and trips to the beach, Disney, and Busch Gardens.

In his later years, Ken enjoyed volunteering at the Hampden Historical Society, serving as president at different times.  He was pleased to see the completion of the Kinsley House addition.  He enjoyed attending the 49^th Squadron reunions and the M.A.N.G. Retirees annual luncheon. 

He was predeceased by his wife; parents; grandson Lee Rowell; brother Richard Rowell; sister Ann Kimball.  Ken is survived by children Kenneth Rowell, Jr. and wife Diane Rowell of Rotonda West, FL, Katherine Davis and husband Richard of Bangor, Karen Hutchinson and husband Linwood of Hermon, Kevin Rowell of Mayflower, AR; four grandchildren and their spouses; three great-grandchildren, whom he enjoyed very much; nieces nephews, and special companion Ernie the Cat.

Gifts in his memory may be made to a place with special meaning to Ken, the Hampden Historical Society, P.O. Box 456, Hampden, ME  04444.

A graveside service will take place 2 PM Tuesday, June 4, 2019, at Lakeview Cemetery, Western Ave., Hampden. Family and friends are invited to the Hampden Snowmobile Club, next door to the cemetery, for a gathering after the service. Messages and memories may be shared with the family at kileyandfoley.com

Arrangements by Kiley & Foley Funeral Service, 299 Union St., Bangor.