John L. Bowden, 80, of Delmar, died Sunday, December 23, 2007 at his home in Delmar, surrounded by his loving family. He was born March 2, 1927 in Salisbury, a son of the late Thomas and Marie Layfield Bowden. Mr. Bowden proudly served his country in the US Army from 1945 to 1953, where he earned his Korean Service Medal and various other commendations. He was a Life Member of the Delmar VFW, Post 8276. He worked on the railroad as a fireman for more than 11 years. After leaving his job on the railroad he worked as an over the road truck driver for Hearn's Produce and Triglia's Transportation and developed a passion for truck driving. He loved fishing and was an excellent cook. He looked forward to planning and hosting the annual Labor Day picnic with his family. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Elfriede M. Bowden; 5 children, John H. Bowden and his wife, Barbara of Laurel, Monica Wheatley and her husband, Thomas, Thomas B. Bowden of Delmar, June Adkins and her husband, Maurice of Delmar and Penny Nichols of Salisbury; 12 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren, and three expected to be born soon; 2 brothers, Ernest Bowden of Parsonsburg and Roland Bowden of Delmar; 5 sisters, Mary Lee Smithers of Delmar, Lottie Neil of Pocomoke, Nettie Thomas of Princess Anne, Carrie Lecates of Newark, MD and Mildred Lane of Salisbury. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by several brothers and sisters. A funeral service will be held on Friday, December 28, 2007 at 2:30 p.m. at Short Funeral Home, Delmar, where family and friends may call one hour prior to the service. The Reverend Sam McWilliams will officiate. Interment with military honors will be held at Springhill Memory Gardens in Hebron. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to: American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 163, Salisbury, Maryland 21803. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com.