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Monday, December 7, 2020
Gerald 'Jerry' McGowan
GERALD "JERRY" MCGOWAN
Marysvale, Utah
Gerald "Jerry" McGowan, 86, went to be with the Lord, on Nov. 27, 2020, in Gunnison, Utah. Born Aug. 10, 1934, the son of Carl and Bernice McGowan. Jerry grew up in Marion, Iowa, attending and graduating from Marion High School. He joined the U.S. Army after graduating from high school. He was discharged and returned to Marion. In November 1961, he was called back to active duty, due to the Lebanon crisis. He was stationed at Fort Polk, La., for nine months. He was an avid carpenter and mechanic. He took great pride in his work.
On May 16, 1959, he and Patricia Buchetla were united in marriage by the Honorable Mayor, George W. Brewer, of Marion, Iowa. They made their home in Jerry's childhood home in Marion. In 1964, they moved to California to be closer to his mother. He built a home for him and his wife at Yucca Valley, Calif. Jerry's mom moved to Arizona. Jerry and Pat started to spend holidays in Arizona. Later Jerry purchased a home near his mom making it a second home for them. Jerry was attracted to Utah. Jerry and Pat purchased a home in Utah making this their third home, their summer home. Utah is where they resided at the time of his death.
Jerry's life journey led him in lots of happy experiences. On his life journey, he made many friends.
He leaves behind his wife, Pat; sister-in-law, Barbara Buchtela Parbs; and aunts, uncles, cousins and his dog Pebbles No. 2.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Bernice; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.
A special thank-you to his friend, Kennedy, who was by Jerry from the time he got sick thru Jerry's last moments. He made sure Pat was informed of Jerry's issues. He drove three hours one way to visit Jerry, while tending to the business he owned.
Burial will be in the Oak Shade Cemetery in Marion, Iowa. Funeral Directors: Magleby Mortuary, Richfield, Salina and Manti. Online guestbook at www.maglebymortuary.com.