Ervin C. SowardsSOUTH ZANESVILLE: Ervin C. Sowards, 88, of South Zanesville, passed away at 1:19 p.m. Sat. June 11, 2016 at Genesis Hospice-Morrison House. He was born on July 29, 1927 in Zanesville, a son of the late Frank and Etta (Humphrey) Sowards. He was a member of the Freeland Valley Antique Power Club. He was retired from Armco Steel. He was a WWII Navy veteran. He enjoyed riding gokarts, collecting pottery, going to the grandkids sporting events, and yipsticks. He is survived by three children Larry (Narda) Sowards, Diane (Rick) Elson, and Lisa (Mike) Friel. Six grandchildren Shannon Curry (Rodney Hammer), Brady (Kendra) Sowards, Ricky Elson, Traci Elson, Jay (Danielle) Morris, and Ben Friel. Six great-grandchildren Kylie Curry, Raelyn Sowards, Jacob Elson, Ryan Morris, Kolton Morris, and Maddalynn Rose Morris. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years Rose Taylor Sowards. Three sisters Lela Griffin, Beatrice VanDyne, and Laverna Brock.Friends may call from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. Tue. June 14, 2016 at WILLIAM THOMPSON & SON FUNERAL HOME 5765 Gladstone Drive White Cottage where funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. Wed. June 15, 2016. Rev. Stephen Harrop and Pastor Tim Patton officiating. Burial will follow in Wesley Union Cemetery. Zanesville VFW Post #1058 will conduct military honors at the cemetery. To sign the online guestbook visit www.williamthompsonandsonfuneralhome.com.