News Summary
Ken Fowler, a respected landscape architect from San Antonio, Texas, passed away, leaving a lasting impact on the field and his community. Known for his innovative designs and leadership in landscape architecture, he co-founded Rialto Studio, contributing to significant projects in the region. Fowler served as President of the Texas Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects and was deeply involved in education and scholarships for emerging talent. To honor his legacy, a Celebration of Life Ceremony is planned, reflecting on his creativity and dedication to the profession and family.
San Antonio, Texas – Ken Fowler, a venerable figure in landscape architecture, passed away on July 14th, 2025, leaving behind a legacy marked by creativity, service, and a unique perspective on life. He is survived by his wife, Carol, his son Evan from a previous marriage, his brother Mark Fowler, and several nephews and relatives across the country.
Fowler was born in Shreveport, Louisiana, and raised in New Orleans. He pursued higher education at Louisiana State University, where he earned Bachelor’s degrees in Zoology and Landscape Architecture, graduating in 1970 and 1975, respectively. He later obtained a Master of Landscape Architecture from the University of California at Berkeley in 1979, solidifying his foundation in the field.
His career began in diverse roles, encompassing laborer, truck driver, and even an Army officer after commissioning from LSU, where he completed armor branch training at Fort Knox and served in the US Army Reserves/Individual Ready Reserve until his honorable discharge in 1978. Fowler took a multifaceted approach to his career, transitioning into education as a sixth-grade teacher and later into landscape architecture, where he made significant contributions.
Fowler’s professional journey in landscape architecture commenced with the City of Austin and included a stint at Arbegast Newton & Griffith in Berkeley, California, while he pursued his master’s degree. He later joined Ford, Powell & Carson Architects & Planners in San Antonio in 1982, where his career flourished. In 1998, he co-founded Rialto Studio with partners Jim Gray and Pete Hinton, which became a pivotal firm in his professional life, completing noteworthy projects in San Antonio and beyond.
Rialto Studio was instrumental in several iconic developments, including revitalization efforts in downtown San Antonio, projects in southern Nevada, as well as collaborations with the Texas A&M University System and the San Antonio Zoo. Fowler officially retired from the firm in 2014, leaving a substantial impact on the field.
Throughout his career, Fowler was active in the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), where he served as President of the Texas Chapter. He orchestrated the AIA/ASLA Scholarship Golf Classic, generating funds for student scholarships, and contributed to the Landscape Architecture Accreditation Board by evaluating numerous universities over a span of 15 years. His dedication to promoting the profession and supporting emerging talent exemplified his commitment to landscape architecture and education.
Known for his whimsical outlook and adaptable nature, Fowler had a rich personal life filled with a variety of interests. He enjoyed reading, writing, gardening, and sports, particularly golf, which he cherished sharing with his son, Evan. He was also a devoted fan of LSU football and Formula One racing, and took pleasure in leisurely walks with his dogs. He was first married to Jana for 27 years, during which they welcomed their son Evan in 1999, and later reunited with Carol Huey, his high school sweetheart, who provided companionship and love in his later years.
To honor Fowler’s life and contributions, a Celebration of Life Ceremony will take place on August 1st at The Quarry Golf Club Ballroom. In accordance with his wishes, Ken will be cremated, and his ashes will be spread across several cherished locations he held dear.
His legacy as a transformative figure in landscape architecture and as a cherished family member will resonate within the communities he served and the hearts of those who knew him.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Kenneth Fowler Obituary
- Wikipedia: Ken Fowler
- San Antonio Magazine: Top Doctors 2023
- Google Search: San Antonio Magazine Top Doctors 2023
- Texas Highways: Texas Legend Sam Maverick
- Google Scholar: Sam Maverick
- Harper Funeral Home: Richard Creed Hasty Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Richard Creed Hasty
- Dignity Memorial: Kenneth Bilhartz Obituary
- Google News: Kenneth Bilhartz
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
