Gordon David Fowler

Gordon David Fowler died at his Sonoma home on September 3, 2008, after a long illness.

Gordon was born to George and Marie Fowler on September 18, 1936. He was raised in Kenwood, CA, and attended schools in Santa Rosa. He was an original member of the Devil’s Darlin’s Sonoma Car Club.

As a young man, he became a firefighter with the California Division of Forestry (CAL FIRE). Gordon’s 30-year career with CDF took him throughout the state. Much of that time was spent in Fallbrook, where he and his wife JoAnn raised their six children. After retiring in 1984 from Rainbow Conservation Camp as superintendent, Gordon and JoAnn returned to Sonoma.

An avid hunter and fisherman, Gordon spent many enjoyable times in the outdoors with friends and family. He was an enthusiastic collector of American Indian art, including baskets, rugs, and pottery.

Gordon is survived by his wife of 51 years, JoAnn, and their six children: Mary Ann and Rob Burgess, Tom and Linda Fowler, Kathy and Robert Powers, Dan and Jeannie Fowler, Margaret and Phil Leonelli, and Patrick Fowler. He adored his 11 grandchildren: Gordon, Allison, P.J., Tim, Bethany, Patrick, Maggie, Jake, Andrew, Brigid, and Tommy. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister Jan; his brother Frank survives him.

Services were held September 12 in Sonoma.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the California Division of Forestry Museum and Historical Society, 3800 Sierra Way, San Bernardino, CA 92405, or to a charity of your choice.