Robert Lane Bowden, 84, of Southport, Maine died after a battle with Alzheimer’s disease on Oct. 14, 2020 at Sedgewood Commons in Falmouth, Maine.

He was born May 19, 1936 in Millbury, Massachusetts, a son of the late James and Mildred Bowden. Growing up in Millbury, he attended the Bancroft School, Deerfield Academy as well as Babson College. Bob’s career started as vice president of the Felters Company, Millbury, Massachusetts, followed by owning and operating various manufacturing companies in Massachusetts while living in Southborough, Massachusetts. He was a former member of the board of directors of the Burnham Corporation, Lancaster, Pennsylvania. He also owned the Maine Trading Post, Boothbay Harbor in the late 1960s.

Happiness for Bob was building a roaring fire, sipping a Scotch while being with his family and collie dog. Ideally this would have happened on the southern tip of Capitol Island, Maine where he spent 83 summers. It was here that he spent the day sailing Boothbay Harbor One-Designs or piloting the Sea Toy. Bob had a twinkle in his eye, great sensibility and a welcoming smile. Our family will remain steadfastly loyal to one another which is the gift Bob left to us.

He is survived by his very best friend and wife of 56 years, Eleanor Davies Bowden of Southport, Maine; his son, Robert Lane Bowden II and wife Laila and their children Jack, Lane and Lucy of Pacific Palisades, California; son, Jonathan Davies Bowden and wife Bianca and their children Luca and Samuel of Brewster, Massachusetts; and daughter, Anne Bowden Collins and husband Stephen and their children Sally and Reilly of Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

He was predeceased by his brother, James Goodwin Bowden III of Vero Beach, Florida.

A family graveside service will be held at a later date. Should friends wish, memorial donations may be made in Bob’s name to your local animal shelter.