Lawrence R. McGowan

McGOWAN, Lawrence
Of Climax
Age 90, went home to be with the Lord, Saturday, February 2, 2008, at Borgess Medical Center. Lawrence was born April 27, 1917, in Decatur, Michigan, the son of Ralph and Flora Loveland McGowan. For most of his life he was a resident of this area and was involved in many types of farming throughout the years, especially tree farming and had raised Christmas trees for 56 years. On his property was a very special pond that created many years of enjoyment for all of his family. Lawrence enjoyed collecting coins and woodworking as hobbies; he also loved poetry and had written his own autobiography. He was a longtime active member of the Galesburg United Methodist Church. He was a member of the City Farmers Club, the Farm Bureau and the Michigan Livestock Exchange for many years. In 1959, he was elected as Supervisor of Charleston Township; was a 12 year member of the Kalamazoo County Board of Supervisors Chairman in 1964. In 1971, he was elected to a 2 year term on the new Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners and served on the Kalamazoo County Road Commission for 12 years. He had served on the Kalamazoo County Fair Board several years; was active with the Pythian Lodge; had worked with the Kalamazoo County 4-H for over 12 years and was a member of the Ramona Lane Square Dance Club for 15 years. On July 1, 1939, he was united in marriage to the former Marjory Backus who preceded him in death on May 30, 1998. He was also preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Maxine Abnet and a brother, Hershal McGowan. Surviving are three daughters, Carol Wayne Holbrook of Climax, Barbara David Randolph of Climax and Vicki Greg Hall of Battle Creek; nine grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; a sister, Olive Miller of Portage; a brother, Gordon Gertrude McGowan of Portage; nieces and nephews and a special friend Elaine Nigg. Cremation has taken place. The family will receive friends from 11:00AM to 12:00 PM on Wednesday, February 6 at the Galesburg United Methodist Church 111 West Battle Creek St. where a Memorial Service will be conducted in the church sanctuary beginning at 12:00PM with Pastor Mona Joslyn officiating. Following services the family will receive friends in the church fellowship hall for a time of food and fellowship. A private family interment will be held in Roof Cemetery, Climax. Memorials in Lawrence's memory may be directed to the Galesburg United Methodist Church or the American Heart Association of MI. Arrangements by Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Galesburg Chapel, 145 W. Battle Creek St.