Verneeta Gowens

WATCH VIDEO TRIBUTE Verneeta Gowens, nee Gibson, age 94, passed away on Monday, December 31, 2007 in Ann Arbor, MI. She was born March 19, 1913 in South Holland, Illinois the daughter of William and Mary Gibson. Verneetas undaunted optimism, generous spirit, and gregarious nature was a source of delight, and warmed the hearts of the innumerable lives she touched. She was deeply devoted to her family and friends. Verneeta made many contributions in community servive and professional journalism, some of which include: member and secretary of South Hollands Salvation Army Unit for 15 years, Board member of Family Services and Mental Health Center of South Cook County, member of South Holland Cable Commission, President of the District 150 PTA, Past President of the First Reformed Church Womens Society, and taught Sunday School for 20 years. She was employed by the Star-Tribune from 1963-78 and received the Illinois Presswoman of the Year Award in 1974, the Sweepstakes award from the National Federation Press Women in 1976 , and the Sr. Medal of Honor award from the Cook County Sheriffs department in 1997. Mrs. Gowens won more than 50 awards for writing and journalism as well as writing numerous plays and skits for community and school events. Verneeta was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Albert, as well as four siblings and her granddaughter, Erin Utke. Surviving are her daughters: Victoria Ann(Gene) Utke and Mary Ann(Glen) Buer; and her four grandchildren: Jared Utke, Megan(Gavin) Gillespie, Braden Weiss, and Kim(Nikc) Hosking. Visitation, Friday, January 4, 2008 from 3 till 8:00 P.M. at the Smits, DeYoung-Vroegh Funeral Home, 649 E. 162nd St.(159th/Rt.6) South Holland, IL. Funeral Service, Saturday, January 5, 2008 at 11:00 A.M. at First Reformed Church, 15924 South Park Ave. South Holland, IL, with services conducted by Rev. Mel DeVries. Interment, Washington Memory Gardens " Homewood, IL. Memorial contributions may be given to the Salvation Army or the First Reformed Church of South Holland. For more information: 708-333-7000 or www.smitsfuneralhomes.com