Donald E. McGowan

Donald Eugene McGowan Sr, age 86, passed away Sunday, October 4, 2026 at his home in Lincoln, Missouri.

Don was born December 31,1939 in Lexington, Missouri to Jonna Clark and Charles McGowan. He grew up in Lexington with plenty of stories to tell about the mischief he got into.

Don later found his greatest joy and the love of his life, Barbara. They lived on Lake Lotawana, where they enjoyed being on the water together. During that time, he was a very active member of Lake Lotawana Community United Methodist Church. He worked at General Motors Leeds Plant for 33 years and still enjoyed working on cars after he retired in 1990. When he wasn’t at work, he could be found tending to his dahlia garden or tinkering with a new project.

Don is preceded in death by his wife, Barbara McGowan; his parents, Jonna and Charles; his sister, Marsha Winningham; and his son-in-law, Mark Wallace.

He is survived by his children: Kim (Dean) Rohr, Cathy Wallace, Donnie (Paula) McGowan, and David (Stormi) McGowan. Don is also survived by his grandchildren: Kristina (Wesley) Young, Justin (Jessica) Wallace, Chris (Stacy) Rohr, Chelsi (Luke) Mawhirter, Chad (Samantha) Rohr, Devin Mayfield, Jess (Julia) McGowan, Garrett (Molly) McGowan, 12 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

Obituary submitted by the family.

Arrangements by Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home in Independence, Missouri