Harold “Duke” L. McGowan

Harold “Duke” L. McGowan, 93, of Cedar Rapids, passed away Monday, Jan. 14, 2013, peacefully at home. Visitations will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday and from 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday at Hus Memorial Presbyterian Church. Service will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at the church with a luncheon following. Pastor Mel Ramos and the Rev. Andy McGowan officiating. Burial will be at 2 p.m. Saturday at Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery with military honors.

Harold Lewis McGowan was born May 21, 1919, to Louis and Leona Roman McGowan in Linn County. Following his graduation from McKinley High School, he enlisted in the Army Air Corps and proudly served during World War II. He was united in marriage to Helen Coleman on Nov. 1, 1942, in Helena, Ark. She passed away in 2006. He retired from Cherry Burrell and also farmed for several years. Duke was a member of the 92 Bombardment Association A; B-17 Group, past president of the Local NRA Chapter, American Legion, Air Force Association and Trappers Association. He enjoyed all things outdoors hunting, fishing and trapping. Duke was an avid NASCAR fan and enjoyed air shows and Air Force Reunions. Duke enjoyed the Honor Flight in 2011. He will always be remembered for his sharp memory, World War II stories and his love for his family.

Survivors include his sons, Charles (Carol) McGowan of Hiawatha and David (Amy) McGowan of Chaska, Minn.; grandchildren, Laura (Thomas) Montgomery and Lisa (Daniel) Derhammer, both of Cedar Rapids, Andy (Allison) McGowan of Kenosha, Wis., Aaron (Rhiannon) McGowan of Las Vegas, Nev., Amy (Kyle) Schock of Sioux Falls, SD; and Max McGowan of Chaska, Minn.; five great-grandchildren; and many loving nephews, nieces and in-laws.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Helen; infant daughter; and sister, Margie Flitsch.

Harold “Duke” L. McGowan

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hus Memorial Presbyterian Church, 2808 Schaeffer Dr. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404 or charity of choice.

Please leave an online condolence for the family at www.cedarmemorial.com under Obituaries.

Published in The Gazette Jan. 16, 2013.