Edward Harold McGowan, 72, of Lebanon, flew on angel’s wings to his next adventure on the late afternoon of Thursday, July 28th, 2022. He passed suddenly in his home.
Ed was born on January 3, 1950, to Harold E. McGowan and Thelma P. McGowan (Light) in Lebanon.
He is survived by his loving wife, Shirley A. McGowan (Donley), with whom he just celebrated 50 years of marriage; His daughters, Sherri A. Freas, wife of David Freas and Jennifer McGowan Alloway; His grandsons Alexander and Benjamin Feeman; His mother, Thelma McGowan; His brother Robert McGowan and wife Charito, and sister Patricia Gaidos, wife of Stephen Gaidos.
He was preceded in death by his father, Harold “Bud” McGowan, who welcomed him home.
Ed was a dedicated teacher at the Lebanon County Career and Technology Center. He taught Audio Visual Broadcast Technology for 31 years and retired in 2009. He volunteered for over 50 years with the Lebanon City Fire Department and found his home with his brothers at Rescue 24. He helped with various firehouse fundraising events and was the Sunday night bartender at the Independent Social Club for many years. He was the co-treasurer of Lebanon County Fireman’s Relief Organization. He was an avid Ham Radio operator, his call sign was N3JOX. He was a member of the Lebanon Valley Society of Radio Amateurs and Cornwall Ranger Station Radio Club. Over the last 10 years, he dedicated countless hours to the Property Team of Salem Lutheran Church. He took pride in working behind the scenes to keep everything in working order. He enjoyed metal detecting and learning about the history of Lebanon County through his many finds. He enjoyed spending time with his family and cruising to many destinations.
He will be sadly missed by all who enjoyed his relaxed nature and supportive words. He was always kind and gentle, he wanted to help in whatever way he could.
A viewing will be held at Salem Lutheran Church 119 N. 8th St. Lebanon, PA, on Wednesday, August 3rd, from 6-8 PM, and on Thursday, August 4th, from 11 AM-12 noon. The celebration of life service will begin at noon, followed by interment at Grandview Cemetery, Annville, PA.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Salem Lutheran Church’s Property Maintenance Fund or Rescue 24 of Lebanon, PA.
