Rodney Bowen

Rodney “Rod” Edward Bowen

Rodney “Rod” Edward Bowen, 71, of Rockford, IL, passed away Saturday, January 7, 2023, at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center after an extended illness. Rod was born July 25, 1951, in Rockford, the son of James Granderson and Marvel L. (Urban) Bowen. Veteran of the Vietnam Conflict, serving in the U.S. Navy aboard a "Tin Can" the Floyd B. Parks, DD884. Married Jane L. Aschtgen on May 30, 1975, in Rockford, IL. He was employed by John S. Barnes for 26 years. Rod Volunteered at Ken Rock Community Center where he founded the haunted house and was volunteer of the year in 1987. Rod refereed and coached Junior Tackle football, basketball, and softball. He was an avid Chicago Bears fan. Rod loved Western movies especially John Wayne Movies, family dinners, watching football, traveling, especially road trips and camping. He especially loved being a grandfather! Survivors include his wife, Jane L. Bowen; children, Angela R. (Michael, Jr.) Collins, Rodney R. (Desiree) Bowen, William R. (Danielle) Bowen; son of our heart, Nick (Maria) Palmeri; grandchildren, Robert, Cameron, Michael III, Kalob, Trent (Ivey), C'era, Rodney, Channing, Domnic, Madeline, Megan, Blake, Diamond, Taylor, and Vincent; great-grandchild, Brielle; siblings, Verna Glover, William L. (Glynis) Bowen, and Randall (Carol) Bowen; numerous nieces and nephews; fur babies, Loo Loo and Butkus; and best friends, Kenny Watson, Larry Ratze, and Danny Whitaker. Predeceased by his parents and siblings, James "Bud" Bowen, Bonnie Clapper, and Kathy Graydon. Special thanks to OSF and staff, especially RN's: Courtney Lomas, Kelsey, Michelle Cravens, Chelsie; the staff at Roxbury DaVita Dialysis; special nieces, Misti, Sandy, and their significant others; and to the family and friends that have supported our family.

Visitation from 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday, January 15, 2023, at Delehanty Funeral Home, 401 River Lane, Loves Park, IL. Funeral service at 1 p.m. Monday, January 16, 2023, in the funeral home, with visitation also from noon to service time. Burial will be in North Burritt Cemetery, Winnebago, IL.