Obituary of Leroy Gowrylow

Leroy Michael Gowrylow October 6, 1935 - November 5, 2012 Leroy M. Gowrylow, 77, of Chicago, Illinois was born on October 6, 1935 and died peacefully in his sleep on November 5, 2012, after a two year long battle with throat cancer. He is survived by his two daughters, Christina and Cindy Gowrylow, and ex-wife Cleo Daite. Leroy is preceded in death by his parents, Michael Gowrylow and Mary (Krush) Mazenis, and brother, Robert Gowrylow. Leroy grew up in North Dakota and Oregon and graduated from CVS High School in Chicago, Illinois in 1953. He joined the United States Air Force shortly thereafter and served for 24 years. He also served in the Air National Guard for 18 years. Leroy loved this country as much as his father Michael Gowrylow, who served in the United States Navy during WWII. Leroy was awarded The Air Force Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service from 1976 to 1991 from The Department of the Air Force on January 22, 1992. He was also recognized for his service during the period of the Cold War in promoting peace and stability of this nation, and retired as a Technical Sergeant from The US Air Force on October 6, 1995. Leroy was also a member of The American Legion and the National Rifle Association. Although his Air Force service took him all over the world, and he spoke fondly of Panama and Germany, Leroy was most moved by the culture, people, and traditions of Japan. When listening to stories of his experiences in Japan, it was evident he felt connected to- and deeply appreciated- the Japanese people in many ways. His passion for traditional black and white photography began during his service in Japan, which he cultivated into a life-long hobby- one that he especially used throughout his travels while riding his motorcycle all over the United States. Other hobbies Leroy had included reading about cars and bikes, collecting memorabilia from his travels, listening to classic rock, watching shows about wolves and other wildlife, learning more about his Ukrainian heritage, riding his Harley Motorcycles with his "motorcycle buddies" in Tucson, walking his beloved dog "Ripsy", meeting his neighbors, and cultivating friendships. It was in Tucson where he made many wonderful neighbors towards the end of his life who he always spoke highly of and was always proud to call his friends. Leroy's charismatic, lively personality, love for life and unique character will be missed by all whose lives he's touched.