Robert "Bob" Emil Gowan, went home to be with Jesus on November 15, 2020, his 88th birthday, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Robert was born, raised and educated in Oslo, MN, though lived his entire life in ND. He was born on November 15, 1932, to Roy and Lilly (Clausen) Gowan the 9th of 12 children. Robert was united in marriage to Betty Louise Bergman on August 26,1955, in Alvarado, MN. That same year, he was drafted into the Army, where he was stationed in Japan with his new wife. Being an athlete all his life, his talent in boxing was recognized in Japan where he was chosen to be a member of the Army's boxing team, earning the title 'Far East Champion'. While there, he was recognized as a 'sharp shooter'. After discharge in 1957, he and Betty returned to North Dakota.

Bob farmed in rural Oslo, with his brothers Gary and Jim. In 1972, he and his family moved to Minot where he worked for Field Enterprises selling World Book Encyclopedia. He owned many apartments and later joined his son in the real estate and construction businesses. Robert also picked up many sideline jobs: A concrete finisher, mechanic, welder, worked advertising sales and managed and repaired his apartments amongst other things.

Robert and Betty, his wife of 65 years, had five children: David, Diane, Karen, Cheryl and Jason, 19 grandchildren and 35 great-grandchildren. Bob was a passionate and outspoken witness for Jesus and known for sharing tracts. He was an active member of Our Redeemer's Church in Minot, and a past member of Zion Lutheran Church in Oslo. He attended many revivals with his wife and children, including Explo '72 in Dallas, TX and several Billy Graham crusades. He spent many years as a Gideon and worked with Child Evangelism. He enjoyed arm wrestling with anyone willing and competed in many competitions with David. He also gave instruction on "how to throw a punch". Robert was a Golden Gloves boxer.

Robert is remembered as a hardworking man that also made time for his family spending many summer weekends on Upper Red Lake, MN and Long Lake, ND. Bob regularly attended sporting events, games and competitions of his children and grandchildren. He and Betty enjoyed traveling all over the world, including Alaska, the Panama Canal, the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Aruba, Acapulco, many trips to Hawaii, and their favorite tour to Israel. He attended the Hostfest annually with his wife and various brothers and sisters. Robert brought a smile to many with his creative story telling and his ability to tell a joke.

Robert is preceded in death by his son, Jason, parents, Roy and Lilly Gowan, brothers: Frank, Willis, Roy, Charles, James, sisters: Leila Farder, Lois Ronan, Delores Jamieson and Elaine Farder.

He is survived by his wife, Betty; children: David (Dolly) Gowan, Diane (Greg) Evanoff, Karen (Dave) Roise and Cheryl (Bill) Schwandt; grandchildren: Michelle (Justin) Puhalla, Cheri (Kris) Neset, Travis (Jodi) Evanoff, Michael (Ashley) Evanoff, Andrew (Simone) Evanoff, Robert (Jody) Roise, Jondavid (Victoria) Roise, Maria (Hans) Kristiansen, Suzana (Jon) Christianson, Anton (Baillie) Roise, Josiah Roise, Elijah Roise, Isaiah Roise, Daniel (Tara) Schwandt, Brian Schwandt, Kevin Schwandt, Thomas Schwandt, Scott Schwandt and Mark Schwandt; 35 great grandchildren; bother Gary Gowan and sister Lily Mae Gulas.

Family Celebration of Life Service: 2:00 p.m. Friday, November 20, 2020 at Our Redeemer's Church, Minot. Please follow social distancing guidelines and facial coverings are required.
Livestream: To view a livestream of the service please access: https://www.facebook.com/Robert-Gowan-Memorial-111320557466019
Public Graveside service : 3:00 p.m. in Section 23 of Rosehill Memorial Park, Minot.
Public Visitation: Thursday, November 19, 2020 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot. Please follow social distancing guidelines and facial coverings are recommended.

Robert Gowan Flowers