James Allen Gower, 62

James Allen Gower, 62, "left this earthly domain to join his God and savior" on May 24, 2009. He was born on March 16, 1947, at Levelland, Texas, to James Arthur Gower and Bernice Inez (Thompson) Gower.

Allen, as he was known, attended schools in Texas, New Mexico and California. He came to this God's country, and chose it as his "for always" home.

Allen worked as a millwright for most of the large lumber companies in the valley, and a stint in Washington state as a foreman for Boeing before establishing his business, Allen's Welding.

His talents led him to design a special "goose-neck" trailer for smaller pick-up trucks, among many other original ideas. Allen was adept at conceiving designs for 'street rods' and converting Model Ts into modern sleek, big-boy "toys." His artistic talent ran the gamut from oil painting to welded sculptures. Check out the eagle at the Whitefish Interstate Bank.

He had a deep love of nature, and it shone through his landscapes. His love of God caused him to consider joining the ministry, but he decided to minister to others through his caring personality and his art. He was someone who seldom knew a stranger, and could and would talk with and share with everyone.

Allen is survived by his wife, Melody Croft Gower; children, Stacy Gower and Christopher Gower; his grandson, Ethan, son of Stacy; and his sisters, Carol L. Van Ness and Sidney A. Johnson.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, June 8, at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home.