Marcus BOWDEN Obituary

From (Rev) Brian Rensford.... I was the first person in our family to commit to Christ - in 1965, at Henderson Baptist Church, after my family moved into Henderson from Point England after my father bought a farm in Waitakere. I babysat Marcus's youngest children (I remember John) at their manse; and was baptised later in that year.

The Hadden family received me into their extended family, and many of the young adults in the church were very warm in embracing new young adults too. Gene Jeffries came from the USA and really stirred the church to evangelism in 1965 too.

In 1967 I left to study in a ministers' college in Melbourne after I completed a Commerce degree at Auckland University - and made two errors! I married an Aussie girl (55 years wedding anniversary Jan 2024) and discovered Aussie Rules footy!! So, I have served our Lord in Aussie (including 27 years regular missions' ministry into Zimbabwe), I'm now 78 y/o, and grateful for the fellowship, sound evangelical teaching, both the Bowdens and the young adults helped me with in the beginning. I only learned of Marcus Bowden's departure in January 2024) and look forward to catching up with him in Heaven soon!!

A friend from my Orewa days. I particularly valued his visits to pray with me in the office. A true man of God. My condolences to all the family.
Bruce Laird

A great Christian pastor, leader, and mentor. Baptized me in 1961 at Henderson Baptist . . . remained an encouragement and point of focus for me over the intervening years . . . "You have run well -- thanks and blessings in your ongoing reward; till we meet again at Jesus' feet"

A great man of God, Marcus baptised me in 1965 at Henderson Baptist. He also took me to several games of cricket at Eden Park.
Blessings & love to the family.

I have very fond memories of the Rev Marcus Bowden whilst he was minister at Tauranga Baptist late 60's early 70's. I was choir master at the time and Marcus's lovely wife Jeanette was my favourite soprano soloist. She always accepted any request. Caught up with Marcus a couple of times over the years, really special. My thoughts and wishes go to the family...he was truly a great man, and he, along with Jeanette will occupy a special place in my memories.
Willie (Laurence) Williamson

a lovely man will be missed by a lot of people we remember him well
DAVE AND LORRAINE GOODE