VERNON C. BOWDEN – PITTSFIELD – Vernon C. Bowden, 96, went home to be with his Lord and reunited with the love of his life, Margaret, Monday, Sept. 22, 2008, at Sebasticook Valley Health Care Facility, Pittsfield. Vernon was born Jan. 24, 1912, in Athens, the son of Elmer and Alice Bowden. He was educated in Pittsfield schools and was employed as a trackman for Maine Central Railroad. Vernon loved being with his family and enjoyed many years of camping with them. He liked reading and especially gardening and growing glads. He had a very sweet and caring spirit and had a great personality. He is survived by his son, Keith Bowden and his wife, Loretta, of Pittsfield; his daughter, Opal Burdick of Warren, Mich.; grandchildren, Steven Bowden and his wife, Susanne, of York, Mike Bennett and his wife, Donna, of Pittsfield, Pam, Robin, Ronda and Mark; great-grandchildren, Eimlie and Izakk; several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his loving wife of more than 60 years, Margaret Bowden. The family will receive friends 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 24, at Shorey-Nichols Funeral Home, 191 Hartland Ave., Pittsfield, where a funeral service will be held 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 25, with the Rev. Scott Millett officiating. Interment will be at Village Cemetery, Peltoma Avenue, Pittsfield. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorial contributions be made in Vernon’s memory to Calvary Baptist Church, 573 North Main St., Pittsfield, ME 04967. To sign an online guest book and leave a message for the family, please visit www.shoreynichols.com.