AUBURN – Earl B. Gowell, 82, of Auburn, passed away Friday, Aug. 3, with family members at his side. He will be missed by his family, friends and neighbors.

He was born in Lewiston, Jan. 7, 1925, the son of Dexter W. and Florence (Bryant) Gowell.

He was educated in the Auburn school system and was a 1944 graduate of Edward Little High School.

While a member of the Edward Little ski team, Earl competed and often placed in alpine, Nordic and jumping events.

He was a veteran of World War II, serving with the Army Air Corps, trained as a pilot and navigator.

On June 21, 1947, he married Mary E. Sullivan. They raised two daughters, Judy and Betsy.

As a family, they enjoyed spending a few weeks each summer at Bear Pond and camping at Sebago Lake, along with many day trips to Reid State Park and rides along the Kancamagus Highway during foliage season.

He was employed by the United States Postal Service in Auburn for 43 years, retiring in 1990.

While a member of St. Joseph’s Church, he served as an usher.

He enjoyed golfing, aviation, following collegiate and professional football, and the Red Sox.

His love of animals and the cottage at Bear Pond brought him comfort and relaxation. He cherished watching his grandsons’ sporting events, drama plays, and Odyssey of the Mind competitions.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Mary; daughters, Judy and husband, Jerry, and Betsy; grandsons, Ryan and Cameron; great-granddaughter, Annabelle Emma; nephews, Steve and Neil Murray, Jim and Peter Sullivan; and niece, Debbie Powers, and their families.

His parents; and brother, Ray, predeceased him.