Byron K. Bowen

HOWARD - Byron K. Bowen, 72, Of 7031 Harris Hill Rd., Bath (Town of Howard) died unexpectedly Friday, April 6 in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

Born in Bath on Feb. 17, 1935, he was the son of the late H. Kenneth and Sarah Annabel Bowen. For nearly 30 years, he has been married to the former Bertha Clark, who survives.

A third generation farmer, Byron's family established their farm in the town of Howard in 1884.

He graduated from the Avoca Central School with the class of 1953.

Byron was a member and past president of the Future Farmers of America, a founding member of the Howard Fire Department, a member of the New York State Grange and the New York State Farm Bureau, a member of the Harley Davidson Touring Association; a charter member of the 2 cycle Club as well as a member of several John Deere 2 cycle Clubs.

A member of the National Rifle Association (NRA), he was a past master and former member of the Lewis Masonic Lodge No. 104 in Howard and presently a member of the Avoca Masonic Lodge No. 673.

Most importantly, Byron loved the land, farming and his John Deere 2 cycle tractors.

His family includes his wife, Bertha; his daughter, Vickie (Robert) Emery and their son, Kenny of New Mexico, his stepson, David (Vicky) Dockstader and their children, David Jr. and Brandi Lynn of Howard; his brother-in-law and sister-inlaw, Curt and Gloria Clark of Bath, his first wife Ester Arnold Bowen of Howard and his special buddy, his dog, Sadee.

Besides his parents, Byron was predeceased by his son, David Bowen in 1972.

There will be no calling hours. A funeral service will be held in his memory at the Howard Fire Department at 2 p.m., Saturday, April 21, with the Rev. James Pearce officiating.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing may contribute in his memory to either the Howard Hillbilly's 4H Club, in care of Vicky Dockstader, 7201 Harris Hill Road, Bath, NY 14810 or to the Howard Volunteer Fire Department.

Arrangements are with the Avoca Funeral Home, 22 N. Main St., Avoca. Online condolences or remembrances of Byron are welc o m e d a t www.bishopandjohnsonfuner alhome.com.