DONNIE GENE GOWER

Donnie "Don" Gower, age 75, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 29, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Don was born to Paul and Shirley Gower on July 12th, 1950, in Marion, IL. Don graduated from Marion High School in 1968, and shortly thereafter enlisted in the US Army. Don was deployed to Viet Nam in 1970 and served as a Morse Code Interceptor at the DMZ. Of the many accolades Don received during his time in Viet Nam, he was most proud of the Bronze Star presented to him by General Westmoreland.

After his discharge from the Army, Don relocated to Chicago, IL, where he met his life partner and husband, Lawson Skala. Tapping into their love of antiques and "junking", Don and Lawson opened their own Vintage Clothing and Art Deco antiques shop, "Ziggurat". The shop was cited in Harriett Love's book "Vintage Chic", as one of the top vintage clothing shops in the US.

It was during this time that Don began to explore his other interests, including management of banquets and catering. Don served as food service director for many high profile law firms in Chicago, eventually landing the position of Assistant Manager of Banquets and Catering at the prestigious Standard Club in Chicago.

Don and Lawson relocated to Las Vegas in 1997, where Don continued his successful career as associate director of banquets at Caesar's Palace, then opening The Four Season's Las Vegas in a managerial position, and ultimately serving as Director of Banquets and Catering at the famed Riviera Resort and Casino.

Don is survived by his husband and life partner of 47 years, Lawson Skala, daughter Nikki (Darryn) Lemasters, granddaughter Jeana (Luis)

Lemasters, great granddaughter Kaily Serna, and great triplet grandsons, Luis, Zachariah, and Justin Lemasters, as well as numerous cousins, aunts, and uncles.

Don was preceded in death by his parents Paul and Shirley Gower, sister Paula Chamberlain, brother-in-law David Chamberlain, and beloved nephew Robbie Chamberlain. No service is planned as per Don's request. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite animal charity.