Donald Earl McGowen

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Donald Earl McGowen

July 2, 1946 ~ November 6, 2021

Our beloved son and brother, Donald Earl McGowen, was born to Grant F. McGowen and Margorie Seely McGowen on July 2, 1946 and died on November 6, 2021. Don led a quiet life. He lived with his parents until the age of 17, with his mother to the age of 40, and then with his sister to the age of 74. His last nine months were spent at St. Joseph’s Villa.

Don’s greatest passion in life was all things cars and trucks, especially Kenworth dump trucks. He loved “talking trucks” to anyone and everyone.

He cut grass from age 11 to 65 or so. He worked with Jordan Valley Work Supported Employment for 17 years, many of which were in maintenance at Skaggs Hall. Don had a marvelous sense of humor, he was quite witty and his laugh was rambunctious and very infectious. We always knew where Don was because his movements were infused with great energy. He always enjoyed a slice of pumpkin pie. He would never leave the house without a hat regardless of his other sartorial choices.

He loved to watch “Miss Fischer’s Mysteries,” “Father Brown,” “Magnum P. I.” (the original), “Perry Mason,” the first “King Kong,” “The Thing” with James Arness, “Gone With The Wind” and “The Sound of Music.” He watched “Ryan’s Reef” many, many times and his favorite actor was John Wayne.

His Catholic faith was very important to him.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother and his many cherished pets. To just name a few, (Mom was a great sport) Jake, Tanya, Poochie, Cindy, Mike, Muffy, Maggie, Spencer, Mohawk, Jinks and Mickey.

We wish to thank the many who helped Don with his struggles in life: the sisters of Charity at Kearns St. Ann’s School, Jordan Valley Work Supported Employment, LeeAnn his social worker, Dr. Springer, Dr. Barry Stultz, the nurses at St. Mark’s Hospital and the longsuffering staff at St Joseph’s Villa. He is survived by his sister Mary Louise McGowen, loving cousins and many friends. He will be greatly missed. A graveside service was held November 10 at Mount Calvary Cemetery.