Patrick Dennis Bowlen is born to Paul and Arvella Bowlen on Feb. 18, 1944, in Prairie du Chien, Wis.
He attends the University of Oklahoma, where he earns business and law degrees.
After graduation, he opens a law practice in Edmonton, Alberta, where his father has an oil business. He makes his fortune in real estate, as well as oil, gas and other natural resources.
He has seven children: Amie and Beth from his first marriage; Patrick, John, Brittany, Annabel and Christianna from his second marriage.
Bowlen’s mother dies Dec. 20, 2006, after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s disease.