Richard M. McGowan

Richard Myrl McGowan was born September 30, 1915 in New Haven Township to Alfred and Emily (Baumgartner) McGowan. He attended Pine Island High School, where he was active in sports and the band. He married Myrtle Nygaard, and had a daughter, Chasie. At the age of 2, Chasie passed away. He was a member of the Pine Island Fire Department from 1939 until 1976, receiving the honor of being a lifetime honorary member in 1957. In 1984, Myrtle preceded Richard in death. Richard entered into a partnership for the local meat market and retired from there. On January 1, 1996 he married Clara Henry at the United Methodist Church in Pine Island. Together the couple enjoyed traveling. Richard enjoyed fishing, traveling, bowling, playing cribbage, and had a great love for music. He was a member of a community choir and the United Methodist Church.

Richard is survived by his wife, Clara Henry of Pine Island; his step-children, Carolyn Johnson of Burnsville, Richard (Vonna) Henry of Coon Rapids, Bruce (Mary) Henry of Austin, and Cynthia Henry of Burnsville; two step-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Myrtle; daughter, Chasie; one brother, Archie; and three sisters, Joy Shay, Pearl Weeks, and Mildred Quiel.