Francis Xavier McGowan

Francis Xavier McGowan teacher, administrator, father, grandfather and devoted husband passed away on July 22, 2009 at age 80. Most locally appreciated by Palm Valley School students and colleagues for "his passion for recognizing the power of the spoken word, founding the annual Poetry Celebration and his stylized techniques in teaching Latin." He taught English and Latin at Palm Valley School (in Rancho Mirage) until he retired in 1998 spanning twenty years of service. Frank began his career in education in the Detroit Public Schools as an English teacher and Administrator in 1958. From 1971 - 1975, he was Dean of the Middle School at Detroit Country Day School in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. In 1977, Frank moved his family to Palm Springs in search of the California dream. Frank was born December 24, 1928, the sixth child of Thomas, a Pennsylvania coal miner in his youth, and Clara Casey, a prairie school teacher. Frank attended high school and college at the Sacred Heart Seminary in Detroit, Michigan. Upon leaving the seminary, Frank was drafted and served as a tank corps gunner in the U.S. Army of Occupation in Germany from 1954-1956. Upon returning, Frank married Eileen Prince a Registered Nurse from Dearborn, Michigan in 1958. They met in 1952 while volunteering as counselors at Bosco House, an activities center for inner city youngsters. Soon after, he completed a Master's degree in Administration from Wayne State University and his first of five children was born. In 1963, the family purchased their first home and moved to Livonia, Michigan where Frank coached Little League sports for several seasons as well as sponsored his four sons and daughter in tennis, basketball, and football. Known for his love of sports and success through practice, Frank inspired greatness in his players through encouragement and discipline. Frank is survived by his wife Eileen of Palm Springs, his son Mark of Indian Wells, Timothy of Yucca Valley, Christopher of La Quinta, Matthew of Los Angeles and Maureen of Brentwood, CA. His grandchildren: Keith, Meagan, Emily, Caitlin, Julia, Liv and Camryn; his son-in-law Michael Rowles, daughters-in-law Anette, Jacinta and Tracie McGowan all join in celebrating his life and remain devoted to his charm, wit and easy grace. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Catholic Relief Services, www.crs.org, or by phone 888.277.7575. A Memorial Service will be held Tuesday, August 18 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, 204 S. Calle El Segundo, Palm Springs, CA. Rosary will begin at 10:30 am followed by Mass at 11:00 am. An informal luncheon will be held following the ceremony.