Joseph Daniel McGowan

Joseph Daniel McGowan Joe, 75, went to be with the Lord on November 4, 2006, after his long struggle with diabetes. Born July 6, 1931 in Salina, KS, Joe is survived by his high school sweetheart and loving wife of 52 years, Marita Alice Flaherty; loving daughters, Camille (Graeme) Darlington, Melinda McKeon, Jennifer McGowan, and Brenda Black; son, Richard Matthew McGowan; beloved grandchildren, Nicole, Adrienne, Rob, Sean, Scott, Kevin, Candice, Michelle, Lauren and Brian; loving brothers and sisters, James, John, Dorothy and Barbara Ann; loving sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, and many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his daughter Colleen Marie and his sister Mary Joe. Joe grew up in San Francisco, and relocated to Spokane, where he graduated from Gonzaga Prep. Joe served as sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corp from 1951 to 1954. After his military service he moved to Daly City, CA, and started his long successful 35 years with Bekins Moving & Storage, where he was recognized many times as top salesman of the year. Joe loved his family and extended family of friends. All who knew him will never forget his laughter, jokes and story telling abilities. Joe always loved a good sandwich with a red beer, watching football and gathering together to celebrate family and friends. Family was his first priority. Joe's devotion to his faith kept him strong and all who knew him admired his love of God. He will be sorely missed by all and his memory will live in our hearts forever. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, Nov. 10, 2006, 1pm at St. Michael Catholic Church, 1021 Boundary Street, SE, Olympia, WA. Remembrances can be made to the Panorama Benevolent Fund, 1751 Circle Lane, SE, Lacey, WA 98503 or the American Diabetes Association, 1730 Minor Ave., Ste 920, Seattle, WA 98101.