Don McGowan

McGOWAN, Don B.A.; B.A. Hons.; M.A.; M.P.A.; 1930 - Swift Current, Sask. - September 14, 2017, Victoria, B.C. A single poignant tear, 6 more breaths, and a long, full life gently passed away in the presence of his wife of 60 years, and 3 adult children. The end was well scripted: one last big party in Vancouver, good food, conversation with grandkids, sunshine and laughter; then to his family home in Victoria, a few days' more work at the market, then a pause, the inevitable call; one last sunrise, then quiet. Don will be remembered by some as: a history and economics prof, an award winning author of Canadian local history, particularly about Swift Current and environs (Grassland Settlers/ Green and Growing Years); or perhaps as a 'conversationalist' of forceful insights, whether on politics, anthropology, philosophy or poetry. Don held many titles over his 86+ years: youngest son of 5; high school drama champion and basketball star; wheat and grasshopper farmer near Cabri; young entrepreneur and developer of apartment buildings in Swift Current and Gull Lake, Sask.; political candidate; head-on car crash survivor; life insurance salesman; mature student at University of Regina and later UVic, earning 4 degrees after age 35, while he and his wife Grace raised their 3 kids; college president; then starting in his retirement, a day-trader extra-ordinaire, converting 'not very much' into enough for his 6 grandkids' university financial needs, plus untold acts of random largesse bestowed on others. Don could just as easily quote from the Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam or Shakespeare's sonnets as he could sing or whistle some obscure song or challenge the fundamental teachings of socialism, or any other 'ism'. Don could and did inspire others in life's virtues of good health, pursuit of wisdom, personal thrift, and self-reliance, all tempered by his compassion and generosity. He will be missed by his wife Grace, his children, Beth Cormack (Sean); John McGowan (Judy); and Ross McGowan (Sofia); plus his grandkids Ryan and Nicole Cormack; Michael and David McGowan; and Josh and Thomas McGowan. Thanks and appreciation to all in Don's 'village' that cared for him, cared about him or simply reciprocated to his mostly cheerful quips. A celebration of Don's life will be held at 11 a.m. on his birthday, October 9, 2017 at McCall Gardens Funeral Home, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, B.C. open to all. Those wishing to share photos and memories may do so at http://www.earthsoption.com.