Charles Gower, 86

Charles Richard Gower, known to most as Chuck, passed peacefully at Hospice of North Idaho on Nov. 12, 2024.  

He was born Feb. 13, 1938 and grew up in Glendale, Calif. After graduating from Glendale High School, he joined the Army and served three years, including a tour in Okinawa. After the Army, he learned the trade of meat cutting.

He married Elizabeth Ann Stopper, known to most as Betsy, in 1961 and they began their family. They had two daughters, Gina and Julie, and years later twin boys, Matt and Mike.

Chuck was a hard worker and a good provider working as a meat manager in various grocery stores. He retired after working 30 years, but continued to work part-time as a meat cutter until he was almost 80 years old. Chuck instilled his work ethic into his two daughters: Gina becoming a master quilter and Julie becoming an eye doctor. 

In 1998, Chuck moved with his family to Lewiston, Idaho. He took great joy in watching his sons through their involvement in sports, including soccer, basketball, baseball, and most recently football. Chuck's hobby was playing poker at the local casino. In 2020, he moved to Spokane Valley to be close to his favorite place, The Black Pearl Casino. Through the years, family reunions included lots of fun competition, cards, and ping pong.

Chuck was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 56 years, Betsy Gower; and grandson, Alex Siembieda. He is survived by his children, Gina (Doug) Siembieda, Julie (Mike) Gagnon, Matthew Gower and Michael Gower; and his grandchildren, Heather (Max) Altmann, Josh (Erica) Gagnon, Jeremiah (Kaitlin) Gagnon, and Julia Gower; and three great-grandchildren, Annie Altmann and twins, Ben and Nola Altmann.

A memorial service will be held at the Black Pearl Casino in Spokane Valley. Date and time to be determined.