In Memorium of Ken Dowdy

Charles Ken Dowdy of Knoxville, TN, passed away on July 24, 2021 after a courageous fight. He was a great leader, mentor, coach and friend to so many in the commercial laundry market and personal life.

Ken was a tremendously passionate and engaged leader. He led with his heart and soul. Ken began his career in the commercial laundry market as a route manager at National Linen and quickly excelled in this role. In July of 1995, Ken joined Ecolab and held various positions, mainly in sales and customer-facing roles. Most recently, Ken served as Vice President of Sales, Ecolab Textile Care North America, leading the field sales and corporate accounts teams. He consistently won the hearts and minds of so many through his extensive laundry experience, valuable insights and genuine ability to influence, inspire and teach.

Ken stayed actively involved with many of the commercial laundry trade associations. He was passionate about making good connections and friendships, especially at customer meetings and industry events and consciously nurtured these relationships by demonstrating the value he offered. Ken was very competitive in business, but he also made sure to enjoy life along the way. Ken lived by the motto, “Work Hard, Play Hard”, something we can all remember him by.

Ken will be truly missed in our industry, for his smile, his humor, his competitive nature and his passion for the laundry business. Ken was a wonderful friend, mentor, coach, leader, but most of all a son, husband, father and grandfather.

Memorials or cards can be sent to the Dowdy Family, 126 Clear Cove Ct, Lenoir City, TN 37772.