Lindsey Marie McGowan (nee Cross), 31, of Forest Park, died at her home on Sept. 15, 2015, one day after her third wedding anniversary, surrounded by her family and friends. She fought a long battle against brain cancer. Born in Ottawa, Illinois on March 15, 1984, she graduated from Northern Illinois University in 2006 with a degree in English and then made a career of editing and proposal writing for the publisher, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. She married the love of her life, Marty McGowan, on Sept. 14, 2012.
To everyone who knew her, the mention of her name brought a smile. She lived a vibrant life that brought joy to many. A beautiful woman inside and out, she possessed a charm that was witty, funny, and extra sassy. She was an animal lover, who didn’t give up on a cat that disliked everything, eventually turning her little Fluffy into a sweet, loving pet. She also gave a home to a stray kitten, Professor Hijinks, and an abandoned dog, Guinness. She chose to donate her brain to the study of brain cancer. She will be cremated, and her ashes will foster the growth of a new tree, reflecting her love of nature. She will live on through our memories.
Lindsey McGowan is survived by her husband, Marty McGowan; her father, Glenn Cross; numerous siblings-in-law; a veritable army of wonderful friends and family; and the sassiest cat ever. She was preceded in death by her mother, Gail Cross (nee Jorstad).
A wake and visitation were held on Sept. 19 at Forest Park’s Zimmerman-Harnett Funeral Home followed by a celebration of her life on Sept. 20 at Pilgrim Congregational Church – Fellowship Hall in Oak Park. Food will be provided. There will be an open mic, so please bring stories and anecdotes to share.
