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Obituary: Joan W. McGowan, 91, of Burnsville, MN
June 4, 2024
Joan W. McGowan, age 91, of Burnsville, MN passed away peacefully on June 4, 2024. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John “Terry” McGowan, her parents, Frank and Evelyn Walsh, and her infant daughter, Ann Marie.
A Life of Love and Resilience
Joan’s life journey was a testament to her resilience, marked by love and an unwavering commitment to her family and friends. She aged with dignity, a living example of strength and determination, remaining a beautiful and gracious woman throughout her life.
Joan grew up in Rochester, New York, with her parents. Despite their modest means, she enjoyed a happy childhood, never feeling deprived. Her family later relocated to Minneapolis when she was in college. Joan graduated from St. Catherine University in St Paul, MN, and soon after met the love of her life, Terry. They shared 54 wonderful years until his passing.
A Dedicated Educator
After college, Joan taught Home Economics at the Academy of Holy Angels High School in Richfield, MN, sharing her knowledge and passion with students not much younger than herself. Joan and Terry eagerly began building their family, surrounded by a large circle of friends, most of whom became lifelong friendships as they raised their children together.
A Passion for Travel
In their retirement years, Joan and Terry were delighted to finally have the opportunity to experience many wonderful European travels together.
A Love for Animals
Joan always had a deep connection with animals and a soft spot for them. Growing up with Boston Terriers, she considered dogs cherished family members throughout her life until their final beloved dog, Tasha. Joan instilled a love for dogs and compassion for all animals in her children, who continue to carry on her legacy.
Survived by Family and Friends
Joan is survived by her children Laurie Thulien, Tom McGowan, Bill (Tiffany) McGowan, Mary Jo McGowan, and Jim (Amy) McGowan. She is also survived by her close companion, Lenny Halpin; grandchildren Kirsten (Chris) Anderson, Steven (Steph) Thulien, Kelsey (Graham) Anderson, Nicholas Turner, Alexis Turner, Christine McGowan, Justin McGowan, Zoë McGowan, and Keegan McGowan; and great-grandchildren Caiden, Ava, Sawyer, and Blakely.
Memorial Service
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 AM on Thursday, June 20, 2024, at the Church of the Risen Savior, 1501 E County Road 42, Burnsville, MN. Visitation will be one hour prior to the Mass. A private interment will follow at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Memorials are preferred to the Alzheimer’s Association or the donor’s choice.
Joan’s legacy of love, dedication, and grace is a beacon that will continue to inspire all who know her. Her family and those whose lives she touched will deeply feel her absence.
White Funeral Home 952 894 5080
Condolences at: www.whitefuneralhomes.com
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