Yvonne Elaine Gowens, 59, went to be with her Savior on Thursday June 8,
2023, surrounded by her loving family. Born June 27, 1963 in Kalamazoo, to the
late Micheal Dean Gowens and Mary Elizabeth (Gowens) Greene. She was the
fourth of Nine children.
Yvonne made many friends through the years with her spunky, silly and
caring spirit. She was known as a giver and would give you her last. She was a
great supporter and listener. She had a heart that shined as bright as the sun
itself. Her greatest love was for her two children, Shad Gowens ( or Stephen as
she would say) and Sasha Anderson. Also her five grandchildren, Damian Gowens,
Artemis Gowens, Yvarra Rodgers, Zhia Martin and KJ Martin all of Kalamazoo. She
was very proud of her Grandkids and regularly attend their activities and events.
She worked at Metron of Kalamazoo for many years, working her way up to
supervisor. She gained a great deal of experience working with Mr. Shugars for a
number of years. Yvonne loved her music, in particular Switch, Earth Wind and
Fire, and Kieth Sweat. She also enjoyed " that one place" ( the casino), bingo and
the Minnesota Vikings. Spending time with her sisters, whether it was crocheting
with Yvette or heading to the casino with Melissa gave her great pleasure. She enjoyed and
was known for preparing special dishes as only she could, Taco's, greens and
ghormeh sabzi to name a few. But most of all, family is what always completed
her.
Preceding her in death were her parents, her brothers Shad Alan Gowens
and Michael Alan Gowens. Surviving are her loving children Shad (Jeanne)
Gowens, Sasha Anderson ( Orlando), her siblings Duke Gowens(Angel),
Terry(Marian) Gowens, Yvette(Earl) O'Bryant, Mark Gowens, Melissa Gowens
(Dennis), Sari Gowens and step brother Issac all of Allegan.Her five Grandchildren
and a host of nieces and nephews. Also a special friend Beni
There will be a celebration of Yvonne's life Saturday July 15 at 2:00 o'clock
in Allegan at the Jaycee Park. A special thanks to The Cancer Center of Kalamazoo
and Centrica Rose Arbor Hospice.