McGOWAN, NORA E.

McGOWAN, NORA E. 63, of Wildwood, N.J., peacefully passed away on June 14, 2013, at her home surrounded by loving family as she fought a brave and courageous battle against cancer. Her last words before embracing God’s arms were “Thank you” a perfect reflection of the special soul that Nora is and will always be. Born in Philadelphia, Nora was the daughter of the late James E. and Margaret E. McGowan. Having moved to Lindenwold, N.J., in 1952, she graduated from Overbrook Regional Senior High School in 1967 and from the Helene Fuld School of Nursing at West Jersey Hospital in 1968. Nora moved to Wildwood in 1972. Her career as a nurse included working for Drs. Gelzunas and Haflin in North Wildwood. Nora later became a bartender and daytime bar manager at Russo’s Bar in Wildwood where she worked for over 30 years. She is known and loved by many. Nora lived life to the fullest and was a devoted, loving and caring mother, sister, aunt and daughter. She was also a generous and loyal friend. A hero to her son, Noras passions included her family especially her grandchildren the music of the Temptations and vacations in Hawaii. Nora is survived by her sister, Carol Golding (husband, Ray); brothers, James McGowan and Neil McGowan (wife, Marie); and was pre-deceased by her sisters, Marita Sheehan and infant Mary McGowan. She is also survived by her son, P.J. (Paul) Gennaro, daughter-in-law, Tabatha, and her grandchildren, Madison and James, of Flanders, N.J.; as well as a host of cousins, nieces and nephews whom she adored. A generous soul, Nora donated her body to Hahnemann University Hospital. A Memorial Service will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Thursday, June 20, at Notre Dame de la Mar Parish at St. Ann’s Church, 2900 Atlantic Ave., Wildwood, N.J., where friends and family may call beginning at 10 a.m. in the church. Nora loved flowers. There is also a scholarship fund, the Nora McGowan Single Mother Hero Fund, being established in her memory at Cape Trinity Catholic School. To contribute, contact Sister Sheila Murphy at (609) 522-2704. For questions regarding the Memorial Mass, please contact Ingersoll Greenwood Funeral Home at (609) 522-2121.