Obituary of Timothy Gower

It is with great sadness that the family of Timothy Gower, 59, of Freeville announces his passing. Tim passed away unexpectedly on February 9, 2025 at the Guthrie Cortland Hospital. Just as he was in life, he was surrounded by family and profound love in his last moments. He was born on April 3, 1965, in Cortland, to Harold Gower and Barb Gower (Puzo). He was the youngest of the seven children. Tim's childhood was filled with fond memories of friends, football, summer pool parties and family events. Tim was raised and educated locally, graduating from Homer High School in 1983. He completed an electrical apprenticeship through trade school at BOCES. His career consisted of professions in electrical, commercial and industrial construction. Throughout the years, he held the roles of foreman and project manager at many major construction jobsites. He was hard working and always a valued part of his team. At the time of his passing, he was employed at C&S Companies and was working on a project at Binghamton University as the Senior Inspector. Tim met the love of his life, Jody Ludwig (Gower) while she was picking sticktights off her socks at the edge of the woods. He knew from that moment that she was the one. Tim and Jody were married on December 17th, 1988, in Homer. They were surrounded by their family and friends in a beautiful Christmas colored wedding. They were blessed with their only child, Elizabeth (Liz) in 1990. Tim and Jody spent 36 years filled with love and adventure together. Tim's heart and family grew with the additions of his two grandchildren Bradley and Madison and his son in law, John Coughlin. Tim became affectionately known to his family as Papa. Tim's passing left a void in the hearts of many who had the privilege of knowing him. He wanted to be remembered not for the way that he died, but for the way that he lived. Tim was a comedian, an optimist and the life of any party. He loved the good times, good music and big fires with family and friends. Tim could always find a way to laugh through anything and he brought so much joy to any occasion. Tim was an avid outdoorsman with a love for fishing, hunting, camping and the beauty of nature. He saw the sun rise and set on waters all over the world, with a pole in his hand. On crisp fall mornings and evenings, he could be found sitting quietly in the woods, watching the woodland critters and waiting for the next trophy buck. He loved to share his passion and knowledge of the outdoors with the younger generations. Tim had a green thumb and he loved working in his garden. He proudly provided his family with many meals that consisted of homegrown fruits and vegetables and meat that he harvested himself. Tim was an innovator and jack of many trades. He could fix anything with a little elbow grease, duct tape and love. Above all, Tim was a family man. He was a devoted husband, father and Papa. He played an active role in the lives of his grandchildren, who will always adore him. Family time was his cure for any ailment. His memory lives on with his wife Jody Ludwig (Gower), his daughter Liz (John) Coughlin, his grandchildren Bradley and Madison, his siblings: Marge Cortez, Bill (Debbie) Gower, Dave (Debra) Gower, Joel (Brenda Parker) Gower, Robert (Becky) Gower, sister in law Sherry Gower, several nieces, nephews, cousins and numerous friends. Tim was predeceased by his parents Harold and Barbara Gower (Puzo), his brother Daniel Gower, and his brother in law Chico Cortez. Calling hours will be Monday, February 17, 2025, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm at the Wright-Beard Funeral home Inc. located at 9 Lincoln Ave in Cortland NY. Per Tim's wishes, there will not be a funeral. A celebration of life will be held at a later date, to be determined. In Tim's memory, contributions may be made to the "Leon Chandler Chapter Trout Unlimited" Ithaca NY. Leon Chandler Chapter Trout Unlimited 475 Snyder Hill Rd. Apt. 2 Ithaca, NY 14850. Online condolences may be left at www.wright-beard.com Tim touched the lives of so many. The family would love to hear your favorite memories and stories of Tim. His love and laughter will live forever in our hearts.