Richard A. Gowen

Retired Maj. Richard Austin Gowen, of York, passed away on July 1, 2024, after a long battle with cancer. Dick, as he liked to be called, was born September 24, 1946, in Lynn, MA, to the late Robert G. and M. Louise (Nyquist) Gowen. 

Dick married Barbara Madden on August 26, 1970, and the couple enjoyed almost 52 years together. They had two daughters, who were the light of their dad’s life. He was eternally proud of them, and the women they grew to be. Though he gave Barb all the credit for how they turned out, his steadying influence, devotion to duty, work ethic, and sense of adventure greatly shaped their lives.

Dick earned a bachelor's in chemical engineering from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and later got his master’s of business administration in aviation from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. After undergrad, he became a United States Air Force pilot, flying refuelers and serving in the Vietnam War and many far-flung places over the years. 

He retired from the military in 1993 and had a second career at Liberty Mutual. He was forced to retire for good due to his first bout with cancer, which he beat despite the doctor’s prediction he’d be dead in 5 years. He lived another 20, giving him time to be Morfar to his four grandkids.

Richard is survived by daughter Heather Walsh and her husband, Devon, of Darien, CT; daughter Hollie Wolverton and her husband, Brad, of Presque Isle, ME; grandchildren Jack, Katie, Tommy, and Chase; and brother Paul Gowen and his wife, MaryAnn, of Richardson, TX. In addition to his parents, Dick was predeceased by his wife, Barbara, and his sister, Joanne Cattley.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dick's memory to York Public Library.

A memorial service will be held at the First Parish Congregational Church, 180 York Street,  York on Saturday, July 20th at 1 p.m. 

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