Former Kentucky state Senator Joe Bowen passes away at 71

Former Kentucky state Senator Joe Bowen of Owensboro passed away at the age of 71 after a massive heart attack.

Bowen was first elected to represent the 8th state Senate district in 2011 and served until 2018. He also served in the House of Representatives from 2005-2006. During his time in the General Assembly, Bowen served as chair of the Senate State and Local Government Committee and co-chair of the Public Pension Oversight Board. He was champion for transparency and improvements to Kentucky’s pension systems to ensure future solvency. His efforts made Bowen a two-time Kentucky Chamber MVP award winner. He was also serving on the board of trustees for the University of Kentucky.

Bowen earned his B.S. from the University of Kentucky in 1972. His professional experience included working as a partner of Bowen Tire company, a family-owned business started in 1949.

Upon hearing the news of Bowen’s passing, Kentucky Chamber President and CEO Ashli Watts released the following statement:

“I was so saddened to hear about the passing of our friend, former Sen. Joe Bowen. The Chamber worked closely with him during his service on major pieces of legislation that moved Kentucky forward. As a voice of a small business owner in the legislature, the Commonwealth is better for his service. We offer our deep sympathy to his family and all that loved him.”