Ukiah, California
1914 - 2019
Jean Gowan NearDecember 31, 1914 July 14, 2019
Jean was born in Ukiah and spent most of her life in Mendocino County. After graduating from Potter Valley High School she attended UC Berkeley where she earned a degree in English. Jean married John Ham, a Covelo native. She has two...Read MoreI just ran across an untouched fleece I had bought from Jean back in 2005 and decided to track her down. I didn't know she was such a renowned sheep breader that lived to be 105! Back then I didn't realize it was merino and really didn't know what I was doing! Now I see what a special fleece this is and will lovingly process it to create something wonderful in honor of her. ❤
Nancy Dorian
July 25, 2020
I was one of her students at Ukiah High School. She was a very personable caring teacher. She always had a smile. Over the years I have never forgotten, Mrs. Near.
She is a very special lady.
❤❤
Valerie Crawford/Shrum
September 21, 2019 | Eagle,, ID
Jean was an incredible lady. Always friendly and positive. I will miss very much having her "on this side of the grass", but I feel very lucky to be a relative and a friend. Rest in peace, Jean.
Marie Ady
September 14, 2019 | Clearlake, CA
what a fine lady. i bought a fleece or two over the years and always was wishful when i saw each year's new offerings. i frequently bought lovely white roving from her and i still have a couple pounds now. i will spin them with thoughts of joy and enjoyment.
/s/nancy biggins
September 02, 2019
