David 'Dave' Gowens of Gadsden/Birmingham, Alabama passed away June 30 at the age of 57 at UAB Hospital under the care of a wonderful team of doctors and nurses.

Dave was born February 8, 1962 to Hugh and Lorine (Nichols) Gowens.  He is survived by his wife Susie Samuels Gowens, children Nichole Gowens Mitcham (John) and Hillary Gowens Moore (Matt) with former spouse Nancy Couch Gowens.  Step children Hannah Lafollette (Zach Hill), Rachel Lafollette Breach (John) and Patrick Lafollette (Nicole).  Grandchildren Eleanor, Charlie, Ava and Carter.  Siblings Tommy Gowens (Pam) and Ganet Gowens Smith.  Dave was a proud alumni of Litchfield High School and an enthusiast percussionist, having worked with the Thompson High School drum line for many years and performing  for the last 20 years with his band 2Blu and the Lucky Stiffs.  At Thompson he was a role model to hundreds of kids over the years.  While with the Lucky Stiffs he was known for his entertaining wash board skills and over the top fashion sense.  He  loved making music, more than that he love putting on a show.

An informal memorial service will be held Wednesday July 3rd from 10am-12pm in the location still to be determined.  A celebration of Dave's life will be held at Wilson Park in Glencoe, AL at 4pm where Dave's band will be performing.  Food will be served, please bring chairs.

In liew of flowers please consider making a donation in Dave's name to an organization near and dear to his hear: Thompson High School marching Band (Alabaster, AL), Donate Life America or the Shelby County Arts Council.

Dave would have expected all of us to remember the good times, wipe away the tears and turn up the music a little louder for him.