James McGowan Obituary

James Edward McGowan, born August 26, 1962, also known as "Jim," "Jimbo," "Jimmy-Dean," and "Shade," was taken from us on Tuesday, September 28, 1999, after a courageous battle with leukemia.

The loving husband of Cheryl (nee Ulreich), he was the devoted father of "his little angels," Kristin, 8; Kaitlyn, 5; and Ashley, 5. He was the cherished son of Edward and Jacqueline (nee Lapka); the dearest brother of Kathy "Gil" (Patrick) Connelley and Deanne "Neen" (Matthew) Sykora; the fond son-in-law of Eugene and Carol Ulreich; and the beloved brother-in-law of Dan (Chris) Ulreich. He was the adored Godson of Jack and Dolores McGowan; the devoted nephew of Patrick (Nina) McGowan; the proud grandson of Helen and the late Patrick McGowan and the late John and the late Sabina Lapka; the tender uncle of Sean and Mora Connelly and Tommy Sykora; the dearest nephew, cousin, and friend to many; and the loving companion of his faithful friend, Frosty.

His positions as President of Dremco Inc. Builders & Developers, and Vice President of Edon Construction Company, Inc. were marked by his gifted tradesmanship in carpentry and his unmatched energy. Jim possessed a unique personality and style, with a zest for life and all its challenges. He had a special knack of always making his parents proud to call him their son.

A loyal Cubs fan, he commanded the English language in a very uncanny and memorable way. He enjoyed a good laugh and a good bargain – often his unique laughter was contagious and resulted in many smiles and fond memories by those who were fortunate enough to have loved and known him.

Jim touched the hearts of many people, and although his disease became debilitating, he never lost his sense of humor nor his courage, which was evident in every battle he faced. Though he never complained, he was the epitome of the "impatient patient."

The family wishes to thank Rush Medical Center, Chicago, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, and M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas and their doctors, nurses and staff for their loving and compassionate care. A very special thanks is due to the anonymous man who donated his bone marrow to help a perfect stranger; we will be forever grateful.

We will wholeheartedly miss Jim, but know that he is with Our Creator in a better place. We are all on the same path as Jim; he is just a few steps ahead of us, and we shall meet again.