T. Irene Bowen
Thea Irene Bowen (née Koens) – With heavy hearts, we announce the sudden passing of Thea Irene “Irene” Bowen (née Koens), who left this world unexpectedly on September 9, 2025, following a massive heart attack. Her beloved husband, Ross, was by her side as she passed peacefully into eternal rest.
Born on August 17, 1940, Irene recently celebrated her 85th birthday, a day filled with the joy and love she so freely gave to others. With her kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to family, Irene touched the lives of all who knew her. As a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, she was truly the heart of her family, nurturing every relationship with kindness and grace.
For decades, Irene was a gifted travel agent, a true architect of adventure who found joy in helping others see the world. She was still planning trips, sharing in the excitement of her clients, and ensuring every detail was perfect. Her passion for travel was a testament to her adventurous spirit and her deep belief that life was a beautiful journey to be explored.
Irene was a woman of many passions. She was a gardener who enjoyed every flower, a dedicated volunteer at her church, and Ross’s most dedicated fan at every ball game. She loved staying active and social, whether through her bowling league or her weekly tai chi class. Her faithful four-legged companion, Missy, will dearly miss the daily cuddles and the love Irene so freely gave. Her granddog Sasha will also miss the many visits and sleepovers they shared together.
Grounded in her faith, Irene lived with the conviction that her life was a testament to God’s love. Her family finds comfort in knowing she is now at peace with her Lord and Saviour.
She is survived by her loving husband, Ross; her three children, Cynthia (Peter Speers), David (Ingrid), and Carolyn (Steve Higgins); and her cherished grandchildren, Christine, Matthew (Meaghan), and Rachel. Irene is also survived by her siblings Keith Koens and Lia (Walter) Jansen, as well as her in-laws Mary Anne McLeod and Bill Bowen. Irene will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by her many nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025, at Wall-Custance Funeral Home, 206 Norfolk St., Guelph from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. A celebration of life and memorial service will be held at New Life Christian Reformed Church, 400 Victoria Rd N., Guelph on Saturday, September 13th, 2025, at 10 am (visitation) and 11 am (service). Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Irene’s favourite charities, The Salvation Army Christmas Appeal, or Habitat for Humanity.
Irene’s sudden passing leaves an immense void in our hearts, but her warmth, spirit, and love will be forever remembered and cherished by all whose lives she touched.
A tree will be planted in memory of T. Irene Bowen in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.