Burt Thomas McGowan, 56

Burt Thomas McGowan, 56, of Idaho, died Jan. 5, 2015, at his Post Falls home.

Burt was born on July 28, 1958, in Wurzburg, Germany, one of five children born to John and Mazell McGowan. He graduated from Brandon High School in Brandon, Fla., and held a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of South Florida in Education (he was nationally accredited). Burt served in the U.S. Army and was proud to have been part of the 82nd Airborne Division.

Burt had a love of writing. He composed countless poems, and was in the process of writing a civil war novel. He enjoyed music and photography - and loved his dogs.

Burt was preceded in death by his parents, John and Mazell McGowan. He is survived and loved by his brothers, John (Cathy), Joseph (Jeanne) and Christopher (Cheryl), and his sister, Kerry (John); 12 nieces and nephews; many aunts, uncles and cousins; his girlfriend, Andrea Knorpp; and dear friends John Cleveland, Paul Pozorski, and Rolfe and Nicola Hebert.

Burt touched the lives of so many people with his smile, good looks and generosity, but mainly with his trademark sense of humor.

In honoring his wishes, there will be no service and his ashes will be scattered.

Yates Funeral Homes has been entrusted with the care of final arrangements. Please visit Burt's memorial and sign his online guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.