Wayne L. Cowden

World War II veteran was member of Hickory Lions Club Wayne L. Cowden, 77, of Washington, died at 9 a.m. Thursday, June 24, 2004, in Donnell House, Washington. He born October 10, 1926, a son of R. Thompson and Mina E. Rumbaugh Cowden. Mr. Cowden was a member of Hickory United Presbyterian Church, where he was active as a trustee, adviser to young people, Sunday school teacher and as an elder. He graduated from Burgettstown High School and attended Penn State University. A World War II veteran, Mr. Cowden served from 1944 to 1946 in the Philippines and Korea. He received the Army of Occupation Medal and the World War II Victory Medal. Mr. Cowden retired from West Penn Power Co. in 1989 after 36 years of service in various positions, the last as substation foreman. He was a longtime member of Hickory Lions Club, serving as president at one time. He spent many years in Scouting, serving as Cubmaster and as a member and chairman of the Scout Committee. Mr. Cowden enjoyed square dancing, golf, reading and bowling. On December 4, 1948, he married Mary Jane Azzo, who survives. Also surviving are two sons, Gerald W. Cowden of Akron, Ohio, and Scott N. Cowden of Scott Township; three sisters, Virginia Hudec of Wellsburg, W.Va., and Nova Jones and Florence Masteller, both of Pittsburgh; three brothers, Robert R. and Ernest Cowden, both of Hickory, and Paul Cowden of Houston; five grandchildren, Margaux, Meredith, Blythe Katherine, Lucas and Ean; and several nieces and nephews. Deceased is a son, Gregg E. Cowden. COWDEN - Friends of Wayne L. Cowden of Washington who died Thursday, June 24, 2004, will be received from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Friday in William G. Neal Funeral Homes Ltd., 925 Allison Ave, Washington, and from noon to 1 p.m. Saturday, June 26, the time of services, in Hickory United Presbyterian Church, with the Rev. R. Douglas Reinard officiating. Interment will follow in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to Hickory United Presbyterian Building Fund.