Richard D. McGowan, age 77, of Banner County, went home to meet his Lord and Savior on November 8, 2023. “Dick” passed away peacefully at home with his loving family by his side. He was so well taken care of by his daughters and grandchildren who work in the medical profession. The ones that do not work taking care of the elderly stepped up and had a hand in taking care of everything else to keep things going.
Dick was born April 24, 1946 to George Edward and Helen May (Juelfs) in Sidney, NE. He was the eighth of nine siblings, Ada, Lenora (Jerry), Ward (Karen), Pat, Judy (Larry), Roger (Joan), Jackie, and James (Marsha). Dick graduated from Dix High School in 1964 and went on to achieve his Associate’s degree in Business. He worked for Dowell, Sandberg Drilling, Banner County Schools, Schwan’s, Banner County Road Department, and later as weed superintendent. He then finally achieved his dream of owning his own herd of cattle. He loved the outdoors and took pride in his cattle as well as his horsemanship.
Dick married his best friend and love of his life, Donna Mues (Coen) on July 17, 1987. That day he also became the best dad to Donna’s four children. When the youngest turned 18 years old, he adopted his “Shorty.” He was always so proud of them. Then along came the grandkids and great grandkids. They were his pride and joy and each one had their own nickname. Dick had a life lesson in every conversation with his grandkids and they each took them to heart.
Dick is survived by his wife of 36 years, siblings, daughter Shelly (Dave) Henderson of Hemingford, NE, Shannon Mues of Harrisburg, NE, Terra McGowan of Harrisburg, NE, and Marci (Allen) McKnight of Ohiowa, NE, grandchildren Casandra Mues, Chelsea (Riley) Smith, Tallion (Shelby) McGowan, Courtney Knisley, Brandon (Haley) Blickensderfer, Greg Blickensderfer, Cheyanne Knisley, Donna Shailynn Blickensderfer, Nathaniel McGowan, MaKayla Enriquez, and Channon Isom, great grandchildren Bradon and Devon Montenez, Lane and Emma Smith, Wrenlee Pfeiff, Freya and KehLainey McGowan, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Dick is preceded in death by his parents, sisters Ada and Jackie, brothers Roger (Joan) and James (Marsha), and mother- and father-in-law Irene and Melvin Coen.
Services will be held at a later date. Fond memories and condolences may be left at www.geringchapel.com for the McGowan family. Gering Memorial Chapel is assisting with arrangements.