Kenneth L Lowden

He was born on December 14, 1935, in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, the son of the late Edna Margaret and John Richard Lowden.

Ken’s life was defined by his deep sense of love for his family and his duty and commitment to serving his country. On February 22, 1958, he married Janice, beginning a remarkable marriage that spanned 68 years.

Mr. Lowden joined the U.S. Army after graduating from high school, where he served as a cryptographer. Following his military service, he earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Maryland while working two jobs and raising four children. He went on to serve with the Central Intelligence Agency, retiring in 1985 after 31 years of government service. Upon his retirement, he received the Agency's Distinguished Service Medal in recognition of his exceptional service.

In retirement, Mr. Lowden became an avid amateur genealogist. He devoted countless hours to researching both his own family's history and that of his wife's family. Ken found great joy in discovering the stories of his ancestors and corresponding with relatives and fellow researchers around the world as he documented generations of family history. One of his greatest pleasures was sharing these discoveries, along with family stories, with those he loved.

Ken possessed a remarkable knowledge of world history and current events and enjoyed conversations about politics and international affairs with his family. An avid reader throughout his life, Ken read thousands of books, always eager to learn something new. He also found great happiness in fishing and treasured the time spent with family on the piers at the Outer Banks. Whether or not the fish were biting, those moments together were among his favorites. Affectionately known as “Grampy,” he passed on his love of fishing to his children and grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Lowden was preceded in death by his brother, Richard Lowden.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Janice, and their children: Susan Gibson (John), Mickey Lowden, Steve Lowden (Lisa), and Pegi Rodgers (Mike); his brother David Lowden; nine grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews.

A private service for the immediate family will be held at a national cemetery.