John E. Rowan, 42, of Dawsonville, died Dec. 1, 2011.

Mr. Rowan was a native of Forsyth County and had lived in Dawson County for the past 24 years.

He was a 1987 graduate of Forsyth County High School and furthered his education through the EMT and Paramedic programs at Lanier Technical College.

John entered the public safety field with Forsyth County, then with Dawson County EMS.

He joined the Gwinnett County Fire Department in 1988 and had spent the past 23 years there, achieving the rank of captain.

During this time, John completed the Police Academy and became a mandated peace officer.

He served as a reserve deputy for the Dawson County Sheriff's Office until his death.

John served for many years as a coach with Dawson County Park and Recreation and was an avid camper, motorcyclist and a member of the Dawsonville Baptist Church.

In addition to his love for his family, friends and the fire service, John will definitely be remembered for his sense of humor and quick wit. But, above all, his love of God and his fellow man will be his lasting memorial.

Survivors include his wife, Lorann S. Rowan of Dawsonville; children, Taylor and Tiffany Rowan, both of Dawsonville; parents, Edmond and Mary Rowan of Dawsonville; brother and sister-in-law, Greg and Kris Rowan of Dawsonville; father and mothers-in-law, Steve and Cindy Stowers, Carolyn Ingram, all of Dawsonville; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Katrina and Phillip Bailey of Dawsonville; nieces and nephew, Jessie and Josh Rowan, Lexie and Lakyn Bailey, all of Dawsonville; aunts and uncles, Anita Rowan of Texas, Teresa Oemig of Cumming, Mark Ward of Atlanta; various other relatives also survive.

Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Dec. 5 at the First Baptist Church of Dawsonville with the Revs. Jeff Myers and Russell Davis officiating. Interment followed in the Harmony Baptist Church Cemetery.

Bearden Funeral Home of Dawsonville was in charge of the arrangements.