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Gregory McGowan Obituary

Gregory B. McGowan, "Tinker," entered into eternal rest at his home in Stafford Springs on Jan. 18, 2023, five days before his 87th birthday.

He was born in Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, son of the late Bernard and Olive (Murphy) McGowan. Tinker served our country during the Korean War in the United States Navy. He then became a devoted firefighter for the town of East Hartford until he retired at the age of 53.

Tinker is survived by his loving wife and best friend Diane (Zuk) McGowan; two sons, Michael McGowan, Gregg McGowan and his wife Kathleen (Cummiskey); two daughters, Melanie Dexter and Kelly Jockel; his cherished grandchildren, Jennifer McGowan, Ryan McGowan, Joshua and Dylan Dexter, Billy, Mike and Noah Leonard, Alex Blanco, Kaleb and Kyler Jockel, and Caden Crisantemi; four great-grandchildren, Oliver and Benjamin Dexter, and Ryder and Wyatt Leonard. He was predeceased by his sister Kate; and his first wife Sarah (Sisk).

He will definitely be remembered for his humor and his infectious laugh, but most importantly for his famous five words before saying goodnight to friends when parting…"It was nice seeing me!"

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, Jan. 27, from 4 to 8 p.m., at the Italian Club, 12 Club Road, Stafford Springs.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Journal Inquirer from Jan. 24 to Jan. 28, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Gregory McGowan

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2 Entries

Kimberly Gumkowski

January 24, 2023

Diane, Mike, Gregg, Kath and family, So sorry the loss of your husband, Dad and grandfather. You are in my thoughts and prayers. May he rest in peace.

Kathy Pelizari

January 24, 2023

So many good times together at Sun Valley. I was lucky that he kept me company many, many times while bartending, with always a laugh and a great outlook on life. He will be fondly remembered by all.

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in Gregory McGowan's name

Memorial Events
for Gregory McGowan

Jan

27

Celebration of Life

4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Italian Club

12 Club Road, Stafford Springs, CT

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