Gary Duane Mcgowen

Gary Duane McGowen, 66, of 10413 Circle East, Meadville, passed away Thursday, April 18th, 2013 at UPMC-Hamot Medical Center, Erie.
Gary was born in Youngstown, OH on January 22, 1947, a son of the late Stanley A. and Thelma (Lewis) McGowen.
He was of the Lutheran faith.
For more than ten years Gary was employed by Brians Auto as a truck driver. He had previously been employed by Schneider for a period of two years, at the Days Inn where he worked in different capacities including Food and Beverage Director, Head Chef as well as a Manager. In his earlier years he had been employed by Crown America Corp. He was a proud member of the Republican Party. Gary was a natural working with food, having created elaborate food displays and ice sculptures for which he won several competitions. He was an excellent cook and made flavored cheeses from scratch. Gary loved playing pool and participated in many pool leagues. His favorite pool sticks were the ones he made for himself. Gary enjoyed reading everything and anything. But his greatest joy in life was being with his daughter, Heather. Taking care of her was his main concern.
Gary is survived by a daughter Heather R. McGowen and her boy friend David Campbell of Eau Claire, his closest friend, Harry Miller of Meadville, several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his father Stanley A. McGowen and his mother Thelma McGowen Schaffner, Gary was preceded in death by his step father Bernard P. Schaffner, two brothers Dennis A. McGowen, S. Richard 'Dick' McGowen, a sister Sarah 'Sallie' E. Watson and a nephew David T. Watson.
There will be no calling hours. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date and time, to be announced.
Memorial contributions may be made to Meadville Public Library, 848 N. Main St., Meadville, PA 16335.
Arrangements are under the direction of Stephen P. Mizner Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 404 Chestnut St., Meadville.
Share your condolences at www.miznerfuneralhome.com