Boyd W. Bowden,

Boyd W. Bowden, D.O. a pioneer in Osteopathic Medicine and Fellow of the American Osteopathic Association, passed away Thursday, April 14, 2011. Dr. Bowden spent his career working to improve the lives of his patients and osteopathic peers—he was a distinguished surgeon, educator and leader. Dr. Bowden was 70.

As the first osteopathic physician with training in both hand surgery and pediatric orthopedics, Dr. Bowden as the first D.O. to join the staff of the Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. After he completed his residency training at Doctors Hospital he joined Orthopedic & Neurological Consultants, Inc. and was named president of the company (1973 to 1992). He remained intricately involved with his residency alma mater serving on the Doctors Hospital Board of Trustees.

Since 1974, Dr. Bowden served as a team physician for several Columbus-area colleges and high schools; his work with athletes and athletic trainers was rewarded by their performance. As President of the AOAO (1990-91) his role enabled him to launch educational programs to improve standards for osteopathic orthopedic surgery residencies. The American Osteopathic Association awarded Bowden with the Distinguished Service Certificate for his accomplishments through research and philanthropy.

Dr. Bowden spent most of his life in the Columbus area. He was a graduate of Denison University, The Ohio State University and the Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (Missouri). Bowden was a member of the President’s Club at Ohio State University, Columbus Country Club, and Buckeye Lake Yacht Club. Two of his most cherished recognitions were becoming an Honorary Alumnus of Capital University and a member of the 33° of the Scottish Rite.

Bowden will be remembered for his good sense of humor, his infectious laugh and his dog George. In addition to his children Erin Bowden, Emily Bowden, Kristen (Kevin) McEnery and granddaughter Claire, he is survived by his wife of 37 years Ellen.

The Bowden family will receive friends Monday, April 18, 2011 from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. with a Masonic service at 5:45 p.m. at SCHOEDINGER NORTHEAST CHAPEL, 1051 E. Johnstown Road(at Beecher Road) Gahanna. The memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at St. Catharine Catholic Church, 500 S. Gould Rd, Bexley.with Fr. Michael Lumpe, officiating. A luncheon will be held immediately following the services at the Columbus Country Club, 4831 E. Broad St, Columbus.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Bowden’s memory to the Osteopathic Heritage Foundation, 1500 Lake Shore Dr., Ste. 230, Columbus, OH 43204, or the American Osteopathic Foundation, 142 E. Ontario St., Chicago, IL 60611-2864. To view Bowden’s video tribute or offer condolences to his family, visit www.schoedinger.com