Jerry Gowins Sr.

Jerry Wayne Gowins, Sr. passed away in his sleep on June 1 st , 2024. He was born March 29 th, 1934, in New Philadelphia, Ohio to Carl and Freda Gowins.

Jerry married the love of his life, Ellen Nadine Gowins. They were married 72 wonderful years.

He served four years in the United States Navy during the Korean War on the U.S.S. Miller 535.

Jerry served in the La Grande Police Department before moving to Eugene in 1961. He retired from Williams Bakery in 1996.

He enjoyed camping and fishing with his family and loved it when the boys caught more fish than he. He loved rodeos and RVing across the U.S. and Canada. He also loved bowling until he was 89. A bowling friend wrote this note when he could no longer bowl and was close to the end of his life. “…I will miss seeing his ornery face. He was a fun guy to bowl with. Always quick with a joke, some risqué, but he wanted to get a reaction – and he usually did. I will miss that crazy sense of humor he had.” He had a great sense of humor and was young at heart to the very end.

He leaves behind his wife, sons Jerry Jr. and Greg, six grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews, and many great bowling friends. Jerry was preceded in death by his daughter, Terrie Ann, in 1997.