Nancy Gowens

Nancy Marie Charles Gowens was born on July 11, 1937 in Jackson Michigan to her parents Georgia May Charles & Smith “Smitty” Charles. She had three bothers- Doug, Dale and Richard who all proceeded her in death.

Nancy is survived by her children- Olen (Krista)Miles, Karen (Dave) White, Robert Miles, Tammy (Wayne) Cruz, Tim Goldbeck, David Miles, Linda Fry, Eugene (Connie) Gowens, and Troy Gowens. She is also survived by 52 grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

Gene & Nancy had a whirlwind romance and married fairly quickly after meeting in Florida. Eventually they moved to Colorado and landed here in Fruita about 25 years ago where they called home.

Nancy was devoted to her husband and had a very soft spot especially to her great grandchildren. She spent a great deal of her life helping and spending time with them. She loved her God and her Church. Nancy loved to read, travel, hiking, horseback riding, & hot air balloon rides in her younger days.  She loved attending the church camp the last several years and loved to tell us all about her zip-lining experiences.  She was an excellent seamstress.  She made many new clothes and passionately sewed beautiful quilts that many will be left to enjoy for years to come.  She also crocheted many beautiful throws full of color. Her skills on the piano and organ were wonderful and truly a gift. She enjoyed her time in this church playing. Nancy loved hosting holiday gatherings, potlucks, and time spent with family.

I remember 5 years ago when Nancy first found out about the cancer. Her and I were talking one day and she told me- “You know, as Christians we all talk about how we can hardly wait to get to heaven, but when it is time to go, we try and hold on to our lives here on earth”.  I will always remember that conversation and the meaning behind it.  As humans, no matter our faith, we still have a hard time letting go of the things in this world even though we know that where we are going will be so much better. She still struggled with this in the end.

I will leave this with one verse that Nancy really liked which was Isaiah 26:3 which says “You will keep in perfect peace whose minds are steadfast because they trust in You”.  I hope each one of you here today will find peace in your own lives and will only have good thoughts when remembering Nancy.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to Nancy's home church, Fruita Faith Baptist Church, 180 S. Elm Street, Fruita CO 81521