KENNEBUNK, ME – Barbara Jean Bowen, age 83 of Kennebunk, died peacefully surrounded by loved ones on May 16, 2026. Born in Stratford, Connecticut on November 17, 1942, Barbara was the daughter of the late Robert and Anne Ritz Cadoret.
Rising from humble beginnings which saw her lose her father at two years old and her mother when she was just 16 years old, Barbara lived life to the fullest and on her own terms. Anyone who knew Barbara knew she was beautifully complex, perhaps even a walking paradox.
A spiritual woman of deep faith yet the life of any party she attended. Feisty and sassy yet as sweet as a human being could be. Barbara loved a good conversation yet guarded her privacy with vigilance. A tough critic to those she loved yet fiercely loyal to every member of her family. A beautiful singer of spiritual music and talented artist yet fanboy to Billy Idol. Barbara could whip up a home cooked meal with the best of them yet loved dining out. She was especially proud to be a 37-year cancer survivor, as it embodied her determination to never quit on anything in life. Mission accomplished, a life well-lived.
She is survived by her devoted husband of 62 years, David Bowen of Kennebunk, her children Vickie (Frank) Drigotas of Kennebunk and David Bowen of Westbrook, Maine, her five grandsons, Conner (Danielle) Drigotas of Winchester, NH, Ethan (Lauren) Drigotas of Kennebunkport, Maine, Griffin (Kelsey) Drigotas of York, Maine, Alexander Bowen and James Bowen, both of Roseburg, Oregon, four great-grandchildren, Rowan, Mae, Fia and Rory, and her former daughter-in-law Melissa Taylor-Bowen of Roseburg, Oregon. She was predeceased by her twin sister Roberta Nolan, her sister Margaret Ernst and brother James Cadoret.
A Memorial Service will be held at 12 noon on August 8, 2026, at Zion Episcopal Church Memorial Garden, 326 Notch Hill Road in North Branford, Connecticut, followed by a lunch reception (location to be announced) open to all.
To share a memory or leave a message of condolence, please visit Barbara‘s Book of Memories Page at www.bibberfuneral.com.
Arrangements are in the care of Bibber Memorial Chapel, 67 Summer Street, Kennebunk, ME 04043.
