Ronald Howes, the inventor of the Easy-Bake Oven, has died at the age of 83. Howes created his famous invention in the early 1960s, as director of research and new product development for Kenner Products.
After returning from a trip from New York City, Howes wondered if Kenner could develop a toy version of the chestnut roasters that were popular on many New York City corners. After collaborating with Kenner engineers, they decided that a light bulb to heat the oven was both safe and practical. Later, the light bulb would be replaced by a heating element.
Howes is also credited for contributing to what would later become a modern version of the Spirograph. Howes is survived by his wife, Nancy, six children, 14 grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
