Ronald "Ron" Joe Bower
07/31/1958 - 12/10/2024
Ronald “Ron” Joe Bower, 66, of Waukee, Iowa, passed away peacefully after a quick but courageous fight with cancer on December 10, 2024, at UnityPoint Health in Des Moines, Iowa, surrounded by his family and the incredible nurses who cared for him so deeply.
Born on July 31, 1958, in Monmouth, Illinois, Ron was the son of Elwyn and Alice (Kinsey) Bower. A devoted father, proud grandfather, and a cherished friend, Ron lived a life defined by generosity, laughter, and a deep love for the simple joys.
Ron had a zest for life and found happiness in everyday moments. He loved riding his motorcycle, spending time outdoors, and tending to his flowers and plants during the summer months. An avid fisherman and lover of quiet afternoons spent sitting on his deck, Ron was always happiest in nature or in the company of his friends. Known for his willingness to lend a hand, he was the person everyone could count on.
Throughout his life, Ron wore many hats – working in sales, IT, network communications, and even real estate investments. A true jack-of-all-trades, his diverse skills ultimately allowed him to enjoy a well-deserved retirement, where he could fully embrace life’s simple pleasures.
Ron will be remembered as a generous, kind-hearted man whose presence could light up any room. He truly never met a stranger. His legacy of love, humor, and unwavering support for his family will live on in those who knew him best.
Ron is survived by his two sons, Matt Bower of Urbandale, Iowa, and Scott (Courtnie) Bower of Chandler, Arizona; his granddaughter, Nayelli Bower, who brought endless joy to his life, his siblings, Robert (Cindy) Bower, Randy (Salena) Young, and Linda Wesley, as well as many nieces, nephews, and close friends. Ron was preceded in death by his brother Richard “Rick” Bower by only 17 days.
A service will be held to honor Ron at Lutheran Church of Hope, 925 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines, IA 50266 on Saturday, January 25, 2025. There will be a visitation at 10 am followed by a service at 11am and concluding with a lunch at 12 pm.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you take a moment to enjoy the outdoors, share a story with a friend, or lend a hand to someone in need, just as Ron would always do!
Ron’s life was a reminder that it’s the simple things that truly matter the most. We will forever miss our dad, Ronald J Bower.
Visitation
Lutheran Church of Hope
925 Jordan Creek Parkway
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Celebration of Life
Lutheran Church of Hope
925 Jordan Creek Parkway
West Des Moines, IA 50266