OMAHA, Nebraska – Ivan Brammer, 62, of Iowa, has been sentenced to 65 years in prison for the murder of his ex-girlfriend, Ilene Gowan, 60, and related offenses. The sentencing follows his conviction on charges of second-degree murder, abuse of a corpse, and second-degree theft, as reported by Omaha NBC affiliate WOWT.
During the trial, jurors heard emotional testimonies from the victim’s daughter, Nicole Schipper, and Brammer’s own son, Justin. Schipper expressed her anguish over the loss of her mother and the impact on her family, while Justin Brammer conveyed his disappointment in his father’s actions.
The case unfolded when authorities noticed a change in Gowan’s demeanor while she was in a vehicle with Brammer on February 13. Initially appearing normal, she was later seen slumped and unmoving in the passenger seat of Brammer’s truck. This observation was based on surveillance footage capturing the pair at various times and locations.
Gowan was reported missing by her daughter on February 15. Her body was eventually discovered in a roadside ditch near Crescent, Iowa, on February 26. The investigation revealed a tumultuous relationship between Brammer and Gowan, marked by disrespect and alleged violence. Gowan had reportedly told others that Brammer had choked her during a heated argument.
