Deanna E. Gowanlock

Deanna Emily (Dyell) Gowanlock, age 86, of Orleans, formerly of Leslie, passed away on Thursday, February 27, 2025, under hospice care, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on March 2, 1938, in Detroit, Michigan, one of 13 children born to Maxime and Evelyn (Turpin) Dyell. She married George William Gowanlock in Detroit, and he preceded her in death in 2013, after 57 years of marriage. The couple exchanged vows on March 2, which happens to be both of their birthdays. Deanna was a devoted wife, mother, and homemaker who cared deeply for her family. After her children were raised, she worked for K-Mart as a cashier for many years. Deanna had a life-long love of animals and in her spare time she enjoyed a quiet evening of crocheting, rollerblading and ice skating, and loved to travel, especially journeying to Las Vegas and local casinos.

Memories of Deanna will be cherished by her family including her children Susan McNeil of Orleans, Steven (Cynthia) Gowanlock of Lansing and Gregory Gowanlock of North Carolina; grandchildren Shawna (Eric) Bennett of Lansing, Amanda Jarosik of Illinois, Douglas McNeil of Orleans, George Gowanlock of Florida, Jason Gowanlock of Lansing, Anthony McNeil of Orleans, Shelby Kessler, and Hannah Bennett, both of North Carolina; and 14 great grandchildren. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a son, George and two grandchildren, Deanna and Albert, and a son-in-law, Clayton McNeil.

Life Celebration and Graveside Services are being planned for a later date. Those wishing to express their sympathy by making a memorial contribution in Deanna’s memory are encouraged to consider a donation to the Ionia County Animal Shelter, 3853 Sparrow Drive, Ionia, Michigan 48846. Arrangements have been entrusted to Verdun Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Belding (616) 794-1300 or www.verdunfh.com.