Gilbert Bowen

Franklin Gilbert Bowen passed away Sunday August 1, 2021 at the age of 92. Gilbert was born November 7 1928 to Benjamin F and Lona M Bowen, the 4th of what would become a family of 10 children. Gilbert attended Winter Haven High School. He joined the National Guard while still in school.

October, 1954 Gilbert and his brother T. D. Bowen formed Bowen Brothers, Inc. They initially operated as fruit brokers, later adding a harvesting division and purchasing and planting groves. The two of them grew Bowen Brothers into a highly successful business.

Gilbert is survived by his devoted wife and partner of 32 years, Maristela Ferrari; sons, Keith Bowen, Frank Bowen, and Buddy Bowen; daughters Gina Tucker, Marsha Bowen, Betsy Bowen, and Christina Bowen; 10 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren; sisters Elizabeth McDonald, Arlene Shuford, and Ernestine Eisenbise; and many loved and treasured nieces and nephews.

Gilbert was predeceased by his son Neil Bowen, granddaughter Stephanie Bates, his 4 brothers and 2 sisters.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 14 at 1:00 at Grace Lutheran Church, 327 Ave C SE, Winter Haven, Florida 33880. There will be a reception in the church hall after the service.

Donations to the Florida FFA Foundation can be made Online at: https://donorbox.org/flffafoundationdonate. Please include “In Memory of Gilbert Bowen” in the comments section. Checks can be mailed to: Florida FFA Foundation, In Memory of Gilbert Bowen, 5000 Firetower Rd. Haines City, FL 33844.