Larry Digger R McGowen

Larry Robert McGowen (March 24,1946-December 9, 2014) Larry McGowen passed away in Avondale, Arizona surrounded by family members on Tuesday, December 9, 2014 from injuries suffered in a tragic accident. Larry was born in Turlock California and attended schools in Gustine, Monterey Park and Livingston California. Larry graduated from Gustine High School in 1964. He was one of those rare multi-sport athletes who lettered in football, basketball, track and baseball all while working after school at the National Market six days a week. Many thought he was destined to continue his sports in college, but the Vietnam (Conflict) War changed all of that. Upon his graduation from high school he enlisted in the United States Marines and left soon after school was out. He served proudly for three years. He saw extensive duty in Vietnam and, along with many of his comrades, never talked much about his experiences. We all knew he struggled internally with the demons and horrors of war. God bless him. He held many positions after the Marines. He was a banker, automobile salesman, RV/Motorhome salesman and was still working for the Resthaven Mortuary/Cemetery in Glendale, Arizona where he felt like he finally truly made a difference. His life took him from Gustine to Bakersfield and finally to the Phoenix area which he really enjoyed. He was an avid golfer and fisherman. Many summer afternoons you could find Larry out on a golf course swinging away while most people were sitting by their air-conditioners and complaining about the heat. He also looked forward to his annual fishing trip to Mexico where he and friends spent days on the sea with their lines in the water and a cold one in their hand. Being the oldest of four boys ( and many younger cousins) he leaves us all with fond and cherished memories of our youths. We all truly looked up to him and will never forget what he meant to us way back when. Thanks Larry. Larry was preceded in death by his wife Maureen and his father Hollis Ray McGowen. He is survived by his mother Zeta LaVerne McGowen of Bridgeport, Texas. Brothers Brian (Nida), Mike (Laurel) and Craig (Bonnie). Also by his children Michelle McGowen Petersen of Bakersfield California, Larry McGowen of Phoenix Arizona, Ryan and Lauren Gerber of Arizona, his fiancée Carla Robledo of Youngtown, Arizona and Rick and John Page. Also his aunts and uncles and surely all of the many many cousins from his childhood. We thank all of you for your thoughts and prayers and know Larry will not be forgotten. Peace and Love to all. The McGowen Families. Larry’s visitation will be held Friday, December 19, 2014, 5-8pm at West Resthaven Funeral Home 6450 W. Northern Ave. Glendale, Arizona 85301. Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, December 20, 2014, 1:00pm at West Resthaven Funeral Home 6450 W. Northern Ave. Glendale, Arizona 85301. Final resting place at Resthaven Park Cemetery.In lieu of flowers please make donations to Larry R McGowen at the Merced School Employee Federal Credit Union Account Number 878790-010