William “Rick” Gow passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sept. 19, 2021 into the arms of his savior Jesus Christ. He was born on Jan. 19, 1950 to Robert and Betty (Weber) Gow in Missoula, MT. He joined brothers Jerry and Jim and sister Betty Jo and later welcomed brother George. He married Peggy Wohlers on Sept. 22, 1978, and they would have celebrated 43 years together this year. They were blessed with two daughters, Becky and Jessie. Rick loved his family dearly, and his daughters were his pride and joy. His eyes would light up whenever they were around, and he was so proud of their accomplishments.
He grew up in Bonner, MT, attending Bonner Grade School and Missoula Sentinel High School. He graduated as a Medical Technician from the Medical Institute on Minnesota and was certified as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist by the National Certification Agency for Medical Laboratory Personnel in 1976. He was also a Radiologic Technologist. Rick and Peggy made their home in Deer Lodge, MT, where he worked at Powell County Memorial Hospital, the Deer Lodge Clinic, and was an EMT. Rick also worked at White Sulphur Springs Hospital and finished his career at St. Peter’s Hospital in Helena, MT. Rick was a dedicated and loyal servant in the healthcare field. He never missed a day of work, even when MacDonald Pass was closed to everyone but him.
All who knew Rick knew him as a kind and generous man and a loyal friend. He was welcoming to everyone, going out of his way to make sure people felt cared for. He loved hunting and fishing (ice fishing and paddle fishing), especially with his nephews and good friends Stan Smith, Al Lowery, Gerald Cavanagh, Jimmy Magone, Fred Kuchinski and anyone else who wanted to go. He enjoyed watching football and baseball. He loved spending time with his grandsons Kaden and Ashton, especially playing chess and panning for sapphires with them. He took up gardening after he retired and, true to his nature, loved sharing produce with family and friends. Rick’s quiet and gentle presence will be missed by many.
Rick was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Jerry, Jim, and George; nephews Donnie Hummer and Harold Gow; brothers-in-law Joe Wohlers and Donald Wohlers; and several aunts and uncles.
He is survived by his wife Peggy, daughters Becky (Dominic) Denty and Jessie (Chris Weisenfels); grandsons Kaden and Ashton Denty; sister Betty Jo (Jack) Hummer; sisters-in -law Jan (Dave) Bluford and Sandy (Jack) Gehring; several nephews and nieces and cousins; and dog, Bella.
A celebration of Rick’s life will be held on Oct. 8 at 1 p.m. at Christ Fellowship Church, 306 Montana Ave., Deer Lodge, MT; a reception will follow in the Fellowship Hall. Please dress casually. Face masks are optional. Memorials can be made to Christ Fellowship Church, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, 5705 Grant Creek Rd. Missoula, MT 59808, or donor’s choice.
Please visit below to offer a condolence or share a memory of William.
Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for William and his family.
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
1:00 p.m.
Friday October 8, 2021
Christ Fellowship Church
306 Montana Ave.
Deer Lodge, Montana 59722
Reception
Following Service
Friday October 8, 2021
Christ Fellowship Church - Fellowship Hall
306 Montana Ave.
Deer Lodge, Montana 59722
Share
Kimberly Buck says
I met Rick back in 1971 when we both worked at Powell County Memorial Hospital; he was the best blood draw-er I’ve ever had!
He was kind and helpful and lots of fun. We continually played practical jokes on one another!
He very much loved and was proud of his family. He will be so missed. RIP Rick; thankful you are home with God!
Chris Snyder says
Rick was a very caring and dedicated co-worker at St. Peter’s Laboratory. He amazed us traveling through snow or sunshine coming from Deer Lodge each work day. He was so kind and brought goodies every day to share! He will be missed. Blessings to your family and loved ones.
Bob Thomas says
Peggy and family. In ones lifetime a person is privileged to meet a kind and caring person. Rick was definitely one. Our deepest sympathies. Bob & Louise Thomas
Kerstin Raye says
Thank you, Rick for all the years we were coworkers at St. Peter’s Hospital. You were always so kind and helpful. You told us stories about wildlife you encountered during your long drive to work. You loved the outdoors. I still think about the cayote story. I never will forget the day my husband Stan got lost in the mountains during a hunting trip. Rick with your help and determination Stan was safely found the next day. Thank you for all memories you gave us.
Mike & Lori Johns says
We are so sorry to hear about Rick. What a thoughtful, kind, gentle man who touched the lives of everyone who knew him. He is in a special place in Heaven. We are out of town for a wedding, and unfortunately will not make his service but want you all to know you are in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless You all!
Sandra Brewer says
Rick, working with you at St Pete’s was a pleasure. You were always so thoughtful and caring. Especially making sure every coworker had a nice cake on their birthday. I’m glad you had a chance to enjoy your retirement and have time with your family. You will be missed!