Allegan, MI, died Saturday, December 11, 2004 at his home. Mr. Gowens was born September 27, 1940 in Allegan, MI, the son of Ross and Vivian (Chandler) Gowens. He loved NASCAR, racing, gambling, and playing cards and was a generous person. He was a perfectionist, was very handy and had worked in construction. He had been a barber for several years and had also worked at Haskell Steel. Surviving are his wife, Laura; 8 children, Duke (Bonnie)Gowens, Terry (Marian)Gowens, Michael Gowens, Yvonne Gowens, Yvette (Earl) O'Bryant, Mark, Melissa, and Sari Gowens; 3 stepchildren, Joseph, Chelsey and Jesse Roundhouse; 19 grandchildren; 1 great grandson; Mother, Vivian Felts; 2 brothers Ronald and David Gowens; 2 sisters, Gloria (Thomas) Younger and Karen (Cornell) Spraggins; host of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father and a son, Shad. Friends may meet with the family from 4 p.m. until time of service at 6 p.m. Thursday at the Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel. Pastor Jeremiah Johnson officiating. Contributions may be given to the family.