Barbara S. Gowen

Barbara S. Gowen

Barbara S. Gowen passed away in her sleep Oct. 19, 2008, at Valerie Manor in Torrington, Connecticut. Barbara was born on Feb. 12, 1922, to Georgia Bailey and Walter E. Zipfel in Laramie, Wyoming. She graduated from Lusk High School in 1939. She was a member of the unofficial "Dirty Dozen," a group of friends from high school who kept in touch throughout the years and enjoyed getting together during the alumni festivities.

It was while attending the University of Wyoming that Barbara met her husband-to-be, Dana Gowen, who was a soldier in the U.S. Army ASTP stationed at the university. They were married at the Episcopal Cathedral in Laramie on Feb. 12, 1944. They later moved to the New England area where Dana's family lived. Barbara would return often to Lusk to visit with her mother, the late Georgia Hassed. When Dana accompanied her to Lusk, he would entertain family and friends by playing the piano for a singalong. Barbara loved music and traveling. She was very active in Republican politics and many organizations.

She is survived by her husband of 64 years and four children: Dana Gowen II of Maitland, Florida, Rebecca Gowen of Baltimore, Maryland, Phoebe Bishop of San Diego, California, and Milan Gowen of Torrington, Connecticut. She is also survived by four grandchildren and several nieces, nephews, and in-laws.

Funeral Services were held October 25th, 2008, at Trinity Episcopal Church in Torrington, Connecticut. A private burial followed. Donations may be made to the Clock Tower Project, % Trinity Episcopal Church, 220 Prospect St., Torrington, CT 06790.

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