PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. — Robert Clifford Cowen, a commercial laundry industry pioneer and an ownership partner in B&C Technologies, died peacefully at his home and surrounded by family Sept. 13 at the age of 102, the company reports.
Cowen began his distinguished career in 1956 as an engineer and rapidly became a driving force in the commercial laundry industry. His groundbreaking designs helped shape the technology of his time and continue to influence modern innovations, B&C says.
His career spanned decades, during which he earned the respect and admiration of colleagues, competitors and industry partners alike. As an ownership partner with B&C, Cowen remained committed to his employees, the company says, fostering a work environment where people were valued and their well-being was prioritized.
“In everything he did, Bob set a standard of excellence, innovation and integrity,” says Bengt Bruce, president and owner of B&C Technologies. “His work shaped the industry, and his character touched the lives of everyone he encountered. He will be remembered not only for his remarkable contributions but for the honesty, kindness and respect he showed to all.”
Born Aug. 4, 1922, in Nashville, Tenn., Cowen attended Vanderbilt University and later joined the U.S. Navy during World War II, serving as an engineering officer. After the War, he returned to civilian life and in 1956 joined commercial laundry equipment manufacturer UniMac. Over the years, his leadership and innovation helped shape UniMac into an industry powerhouse. In 1965, he relocated the manufacturing plant to Marianna, Fla., where he continued to build his legacy for nearly 60 years.
Besides his professional achievements, Cowen was also active in his community, serving as a councilman and mayor, and as president of the local Rotary Club.
He is survived by three children, nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his wife Jeanne, his parents, and a sister.
In lieu of flowers, the Cowen family asks that donations be made to First Presbyterian Church, 4437 Clinton St., Marianna, FL 32446, or to a charity of choice in his memory.
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