Northborough – Erik J. Sowden passed away at home on October 13, 2016 after a heroin overdose. Erik's family wishes that this will bring awareness to everyone in hopes of preventing the heartache that they are now experiencing. He leaves behind his parents, "EJ" and Kathy Sowden; his brother, Justin Sowden, his paternal grandmother, Linda Sowden all of Northborough; his maternal grandparents, Ken and Erma Tomcheck of Oxnard, CA; aunts and uncles, Jen Rizzi of Bellingham; Rob and Angie Sowden of Shrewsbury; Don & Debbie Sowden of Hampton, VA; Scott & Sue Sowden of Northborough; Keith & Denise Sowden of Hudson; Bruce & Sue Holler of Ventura, CA; Sally Woods of Van Dyne, WS; several cousins. Born in Ventura, CA, Erik was a lifelong resident of Northborough. He graduated from the metal fabrication program at Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School, class of 2010. Erik was employed as a welder for the past 10 years at Jakeweld in Northborough.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 19, 2016 from 5-8 p.m. in Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main St. Northborough. Burial will take place privately. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Erik's name may be made to your local Lions Club or Mass Lion Eye Research Fund (www.masslionseyeresearchfund.org), 3 Stewart Terrace

Belmont, MA 02478.