Thomas Earl Gowans, 99, of Oakland, passed away on August 2, 2026, at Garrett Regional Medical Center. Born on March 29, 1927, in Lonaconing, he was the son of the late Charles Steele and Mary Margaret (Fazenbaker) Gowans.

Tom proudly served his country in the United States Army, retiring after 21 years of dedicated service. Following his military career, he worked for the Maryland Department of Natural Resources as a Park Ranger, where he continued his commitment to public service. Tom was a lifetime member of the American Legion, a member of the F.O.P., a past member of the Accident Fire Department, and a longtime member of the Oakland Golf Course. In his younger days, he was an avid bowler and enjoyed sports of all sorts, but his greatest passion was spending a day on the greens, golfing with friends and fellow members.

He is survived by the love of his life and best friend, Juanita Stonebraker; his children, Roberta Stewart and husband Donald, and Thomas Scott Gowans; grandchildren, Travis Brenneman and wife Theresa, Dallas Brenneman, and Shantelle Oliverio; great-grandchilden, Nathaniel Brenneman, Lily Brenneman, and Lincoln Oliverio; stepdaughter, Kellie Nelson (Deryle); special granddaughter, Katie Nelson; and special friends, Vera Stonebraker, Rose Clark, Helen Crouse, Richard Armstrong, Janet Dye, Thelma Delessio, and Sandy and Jim Browning.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Charles F Gowans, Eugene Gowans, and Clara Metz.

A private service will be held for close family and friends. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

The Fredlock & Fenner Funeral Homes, P.A. - Oakland Chapel is honored to be serving the Tom's family.