RACINE – Mr. Kenneth L. Mowry, Sr., 68, passed away at his residence on Monday, December 30, 2013.

He was born in Racine on August 16, 1945, the son of the late Kenneth and Mary Jane (nee: Patrick) Mowry.  He graduated from Washington Park High School in 1963.  After graduation he worked with his father at Mowry's Service.  On January 18, 1974, he married Janet Foreman Walley.  Together they purchased the service station from Ken's father in 1978 and owned and operated the business for 20 years, selling in 1998.  After he retired he worked for Advance Auto Parts for 5 years.

Ken was a longtime member of Atonement Lutheran Church.  He was a flying enthusiast, holding his pilot's license until his heart transplant 17 years ago prevented him from continuing his passion. Ken developed many relationships with his customers and friends over the years.  He was always available to help a friend whenever he had an opportunity, even when he wasn't feeling well.

In addition to his loving wife, Janet, he is survived by his children, Deanna Jo Mowry, David Walley, Kim (Michael) Lueck, Brian (Susan) Walley all of Racine; his grandchildren, Katelyn Mowry of Racine, Jennifer Tarantola of Chicago, Jeremy Lueck of Idaho, Nicole (Kevin) Singstock, Cameron Walley, Justina Walley, Braelyn Walley, Nikita Wallin and Samantha Hawkins all of Racine; his great grandson, Draven Kenneth O'Neill; his brother, Michael (Debra) Mowry and nephew, Brandon Mowry of Wahoo, NE.  He was also preceded in death by his son, Kenneth Mowry, Jr.; his brother, Patrick Mowry; his sister-in-law, Lois Chininis and his former wife, Pamela Marko.

Family and friends are invited to meet at Atonement Lutheran Church (2915 Wright Ave.) on Saturday, January 4, 2014 for a visitation from 9-11 a.m.  A service celebrating and honoring his life will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Dr. Warren Williams officiating.  A private interment will take place at Graceland Cemetery.

A very special thank you to "Bobby" and his family for giving Ken the incredible gift of another 17 years of life through his heart donation.  The Mowry family also thanks Hospice Alliance, Dr. Carlynn Crevier and Dr. Michael Mullane and their staffs for the loving and professional attention provided while Ken was under their care.