David Scott Bowden Sr., 67, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, in Madison, Tennessee.
Born in Livingston, NJ, to John and Ruth (Zink) Bowden, Dave was raised with his three siblings in Rockaway, NJ. He enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving as an infantryman with the 82nd Airborne in Fort Bragg, NC, and 1st Armored Division in Illesheim, Germany, also earning his Army Parachutist Badge and Ranger Tab. Later, he began a career with the Pike County Sheriff’s Office in Milford, Pa., attaining the rank of sergeant.
Known for his larger-than-life personality, incredible gift for storytelling, and unrivaled ability to throw a party or barbeque, Dave was the life of every get-together. His ability to connect with people and entertain was unparalleled. Whether it was cheering on his beloved football team with an extended, boisterous “gooo Giants” or willing them to victory with his Rubberman dance, grilling up a feast for friend and family, or sharing one of his jokes, he brought joy to every gathering.
Dave deeply loved his children, siblings, nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and grandnieces/nephews with his whole heart. He had an incredible talent for judging character and would spare no expense available to a friend to show he cared.
Dave was predeceased by his father John Bowden, mother Ruth (Zink) Bowden, and niece Ivy (Tallmadge) Kirk. He is survived by his siblings John Bowden of New Jersey, Beverly (Bowden) Tallmadge of Pennsylvania, and Gary Bowden of West Virginia; his children David Bowden and his wife Emily of New Jersey, Holly (Bowden) Taylor of Tennessee, and Heather (Bowden) Tepas of Pennsylvania; their mother Sue (Baum) Hemeleski of Pennsylvania; his niece Judy (Tallmadge) Brooks and her husband Jason, and nephew Justin Bowden and wife Missy of Maryland; and his grandchildren and grandnieces/nephews.
Service: Saturday, September 28, 2024, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Stroyan Funeral Home in Milford, Pennsylvania, with a gathering at American Legion Post #139 immediately following.