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RICHARD ARTHUR CHOWEN

Late yesterday afternoon, Dick Chowen finished tinkering with his final project on earth. At 5:12 p.m. on Jan. 24, 2022, he drew his last breath and rested.

Richard Arthur Chowen was born on May 28, 1944, in Cheboygan, Michigan of Cecil and Alice (Dunham) Chowen. Richard was the youngest of four children. Rhoda (Chowen) Ross, Hugh, and Allan. Richard grew up on the family farm in Onaway, Michigan until heading off to college at DeVry University in Chicago, Illinois.

Upon completion of his engineering degree, Dick worked a short stint at General Motors then found his true calling as a Field Engineer with IBM. Dick retired after 30 years with IBM then started his own business, Chowen and Associates, Inc.

Dick married Marvel Bryant of Waseca, Minnesota and had three children together. Amber, Derek, and Heather. Dick and Marv divorced in 1983 yet remained best of friends.

Dick had a keen interest in anything mechanical, electrical or yet to be invented. Those that knew him, knew he could build or fix anything. He was a pilot, scuba diver, sailor, race car driver, inventor, ham radio operator, farmer, and most importantly to him, a friend to all he met.

In 2003, Dick met the love of his life, Linda Hardcastle. His eyes lit up whenever he spoke of her and he spoke of her often. He never failed to mention how thankful he was to have her in his life and how much joy she brought to his heart. Linda was the perfect match for Dick and he let the world know.

Dick Chowen loved his collection of cars and tractors but valued nothing more highly than his family and friends.

Dick is survived by the love of his life, Linda; son, Derek Chowen; daughter, Heather (Clifton) McCrimmon, grandchildren, Austin (Lara) Southard, Courtney Southard, Cameron (Kate) McCrimmon, Logan McCrimmon, Wade Werth, Samantha Chowen, sister Rhoda Ross, and brother Hugh (Arlette) Chowen.

Dick was preceded in death by his daughter, Amber as an infant to Reye’s Syndrome, and his brother, Allan Chowen.

A memorial will be held at a later date. Arrangements have been made by the Bannan Funeral Home.