Obituary of James Cleveland McGowan

March 30, 1945 – Winnipeg, Manitoba

September 18, 2023 - Calgary, Alberta
 

James “Jim” McGowan, of Calgary, Alberta, passed away on Monday, September 18, 2023, at the age of 78 years. Jim was born in Winnipeg, MB. He was the second child and first son of James and Victoria (nee Davidson) McGowan.

Jim grew up in the St. James area of Winnipeg, MB, attending Assiniboine Elementary School, and St. James Collegiate. After leaving high school, Jim worked for a few years in Winnipeg, MB, before heading west to Alberta where he found his career passion, in the oil and gas industry. It was in Alberta that he found his life partner, Betty Anne Dowell. They married in 1970 and welcomed their son David in 1976.

Jim had a few passions in life that included his family, his dogs, and drag car racing. He spent many weekends volunteering at Race City Speedway where he was a Starter and Drag Racing Director. He was also a lifelong Blue Bombers fan. He had an amazing memory for names and dates, not only for football, but also for many other important events. He enjoyed trash talking with friends and co-workers over the result of sporting events.

When Jim had an interest in something, he didn’t just “stick his toe in the water”, he “jumped in headfirst” and became very knowledgeable about his interest.

Jim will be sadly missed by his wife of 53 years, Betty Anne, son David and grandson Cole, as well as brother Bob (Lynda), sister Gail and many cousins, nephews, nieces (on both sides).

Jim fought a brave battle against a rare cancer. The family is thankful for the care he received at South Health Campus Hospital since entering on July 25, 2023. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Canadian Cancer Society (325 Manning Rd, NE #200, Calgary, AB), Telephone: 1-800-268-8847, Website: https://cancer.ca.   

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church (1600 Acadia Dr. SE, Calgary, AB) on Friday, September 29, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. Reception to follow at the Church. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with James’s family here.

In living memory of James Cleveland McGowan, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.