Doris Bowden

It is with very heavy hearts we announce the passing of Doris F. Bowden (Smith) on the morning of August 27, 2023 at the Maine Veterans’ Home in Bangor. Doris was born on March 16, 1935 to Cleveland and Ethel Smith in Charleston, Maine. After graduating from East Corinth Academy, Doris met the love of her life Wilfred “Bud” Bowden and they built a wonderful life in Kenduskeag, raising 3 children; Dennis, Karen, and Rick. They were very happy and proud of their family, always supporting baseball, basketball games, or cheering competitions. Bud and Doris made lifelong friends in town and served as Town Clerk and Tax Collector for many years. They were members of the Kenduskeag Union Church always volunteering to help with church suppers and also the food pantry. Doris was a very good cook and will long be remembered for banana bread that seemingly cannot be replicated. She was also talented with knitting and crocheting, as attested by her collection of yarn and the beautiful handmade items her loved ones received. They were avid Maine Hockey fans and were season ticket holders for many years.

Doris was predeceased by her parents; her husband of 63 years, Bud; and six siblings, Cliff, Clayton, Chet, Ken, Dana, and Fern. In 2003, she experienced the pain of losing her daughter, Karen, an impact felt during the remaining years of her life. Doris is survived by her children, Dennis, Rick, and his wife, Gina; grandchildren, Andrew, Danielle Neal, and her husband, Ben, and Ryan; great grandchildren, Brooke Bowden, Olivia and Kira Neal.

She will be remembered as a wonderful mother, Gram, Mimi, or Mamie by all of us. The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful staff of the Maine Veterans’ Home for their kindness and compassion in caring for Doris over the last two years. Graveside funeral services will be held 12:30 PM, Sunday, September 3, 2023 at Kenduskeag Village Cemetery, Kenduskeag, with Rev. Foster Williams officiating. Gifts in Doris’ memory may be made to the Maine Veteran’s Home in Bangor, 44 Hogan Road, Bangor, ME.