Ernest A. Bowen

CLARENDON - Ernest A. Bowen, 88, died Friday, January 11, 2008 at the Rutland Regional Medical Center.

He moved with his family to Rochester when he was five years old, and attended Rochester schools. Following his education, he worked on the family farm. He married Helen Liljeroth March 8, 1940 in Rochester.

He served with the U.S. Army Infantry in the Philippines during World War II. After his discharge from the service, he returned to Rochester. He later moved to the Rutland area, where he worked as a contractor, until retiring in his early 80s.

In earlier years, he enjoyed hunting and dancing. His memberships included Rochester Rural Lodge #29 F&AM and the Cairo Temple, where he had served as Captain of the Patrol and Drum Corps.

Survivors include eight sons: Charles H. Bowen of Whitehall, N.Y., Richard E. Bowen and Jack A. Bowen, both of Clarendon, Robert E. Bowen of Killington, Garry C. Bowen of Castleton, Allen L. Bowen of No. Carolina, Michael B. Bowen of Middletown Springs, and Scott Bowen of Rutland; six daughters: Patricia A. Phinney of Monson, Mass., Lois Ann Noble of Mechanicsville, N.Y., Virginia M. Hamel of Las Vegas, Nev., and Edna A. Tipton of Randolph; two brothers: William C. Bowen of Rochester and Thompson Bowen of Salisbury; two sisters: Olive Hill of Rochester and Barbara Tilquest of Mendon; 38 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by three brothers: Leroy C., Edward A. and Martin W. Bowen; and a sister, Edna Bowen.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, Jan. 15, at the Rochester Federated Church. Rev. Gregory Homan and Rev. Marsh Hudson-Knapp officiated. Phyllis Hawley was the organist. The congregation sang "How Great Thou Art," "In The Garden," and "Amazing Grace." Ernie's sister, Barbara Tilquest, and his caregiver, Frances Tice, shared remembrances.

Burial with full military honors, conducted by the Vermont Army National Guard, followed at the Woodlawn Cemetery in Rochester. The pall bearers were Charles, Richard, Robert, Jack, Garry, Allen, Michael and Scott Bowen. A reception followed at the fellowship hall of the church. Calling hours were held Monday evening, when Rochester Rural Lodge #29 held a Masonic service at the Day Funeral Home in Randolph.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Shriners Hospital for Children, Office of Development, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, Fla. 33607.

Online condolences may be left at www.dayfunerals.com.

Arrangements were under the direction of the Day Funeral Home of Randolph.

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