Sylvester Carl Dean Gowin was born and raised in Poplar Bluff, Missouri on September 12, 1944. He was named after his grandfather and father. He left high School early to join the Marines in 1962, and served bravely in Vietnam 2 tours. When he returned from service he married Sarah Donna and they had a daughter Renee Lynn. Some years later they divorced. He became a Welder and Boilermaker 592. He drove a Semi when he didn't have welding work and helped his best friend on a farm. Always providing well for his family. He met and married Donna Kay then adopted her children Shelia and David when they were young. He moved to Oklahoma and stayed in Oklahoma until his death. After Donna's death he met and married Cynthia, and extending his love to her children as though they were his own. Carl enjoyed: His family gatherings, Fishing, Hunting, Camping, Gardening, Traveling, and Clowning for children. Carl leaves a legacy of love and integrity with his family and those who knew him. He has left behind wonderful memories of a loving husband, grandfather, and father. We are grateful for each and every day we got to see his glowing smile, his deep robust laugh, and for the lessons learned and all the jokes we shared. More importantly, Carl has been a devoted, patient and somewhat unpredictable husband, a 32nd degree Master Mason, Scottish Rite, a tireless Shriner, Little League Coach, steadfast fan of OU college football and eventually a very proud grandfather. Carl set an exemplary example as a husband, father and grandfather. He was spiritually strong and compassionate, and had a clever sense of humor. Above all, he loved and cherished his family  Carl leaves behind his wife: Cynthia Gowin, Sand Springs, OK, Mother: Vernice Seratt Doniphan, MO, Daughter: Shelia (Jeff Hingey) Wagoner, OK, Sister: Karen Faye (Ray Shepard) Doniphan, MO, Step children: Jake Durant (Kim) Tulsa, OK, Jackson Fondren Tulsa, OK, Deseray Brown Sapulpa, OK, Desirae (James Norem) Dublin, Ireland. 13 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Proceeded in death by his Father: Carl Lee Gowin, Wife: Donna Kay Hodge, Daughter: Renee Lynn LaVoie, Son: David Wayne Gowin and Sister: Carolyn Sue Hunter. Services will be held Saturday, December 29, 1:30 p.m. at Akdar Shrine Temple, 2808 South Sheridan, Tulsa, OK . Internment will be at Floral Haven, Broken Arrow, OK. In lieu of flowers the family ask that donations be made to the Akdar Shrine Transportation Fund.