SHEPHERDSTOWN, W.Va. — Tributes are coming in for Jefferson County real estate giant and philanthropist Ken Lowe as community members woke up to the news of his passing this week.
Lowe was was elected president of the Charles Town Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association after serving on its board and owned and bred thoroughbreds for more than 10 years in Maryland after previously racing in Maryland, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Virginia and New York.
In 2016, Lowe was appointed by Gov. Jim Justice to the West Virginia Racing Commission.
The Journal newspaper’s Toni Milbourne wrote a special tribute about Lowe this week.
“It is rare when one can befriend another who is soft-spoken, intelligent and witty-yet strong and determined all at the same time. Ken Lowe was one of those friends. Upon hearing the news of his passing, as I felt tears spring into my eyes in one second and laughter bubble up from a quick memory the next. And I am sure that is just how Kenny would want it.
Ken Lowe, for those who may not have heard of him-although I would find that as hard to believe-has been a force in the Shepherdstown community, the Jefferson County community and the state of West Virginia community for more years than he would probably have me tell.
His voice and his passion for all things West Virginia will resound long after this time of when he has physically left this earth. He was an advocate for so many things-so many causes-and there are so many who will miss his efforts and his strength. The horsemen in our county and in our state come to mind as Kenny was their biggest champion-fighting for thoroughbred racing to remain viable here and for those in that industry to be well cared for. They had no stronger champion.
Tourism was another place Kenny reigned supreme, from owning and operating the Clarion Hotel in Shepherdstown that welcomed so many including President Bill Clinton for peace talks held here. Kenny was all about showing off his town, his county, his state and he never wavered from that mindset. He cheered all things Shepherd University and all things Shepherdstown in general.”