Ronald Lynn McGowan

    Ronald Lynn McGowan, age 63, of Ithaca, MI, passed away Wednesday, September 21, 2022, at his home.

     A cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Ron's Life will be held at a later date. Burial will take place at Ithaca Cemetery.

Ron was born in Bronx, New York on August 28, 1959, the son of Clarence James and Jane (Thoms) McGowan. He graduated from East Brunswick High School in East Brunswick, New Jersey with the class of 1977. He earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Telecommunications from MSU. Ron worked for a time for WKAR-TV, working on the sound for TV shows like Michigan Outdoors. Later, he worked at Michigan Brass & Electric in Lansing. Finally he worked in Art Van Furniture for 16 years in the office where he held several positions and was known for never missing work. He made lasting friendships there and was sad to see the company close.

     On October 1, 1999, Ron married Deborah Marie Wiseman in Ithaca,

Michigan. They were blessed with nearly 23 years of marriage. Ron enjoyed listening to and talking about music. He was an avid MSU sports fan, particularly men’s basketball. Recently he finished organizing his baseball card collection.  Ron woke every day with a sunny attitude. He was an optimist and always saw the best in people. He was the light at the heart of the family.

Ron is survived by his wife Deborah of Ithaca, MI; son Peter McGowan of Ithaca, MI; his stepson Drew Aldrich of Lansing, MI; and granddaughter Mary Lynn of Bay City, MI; brother Doug (Debbie Geiger) McGowan of Ann Arbor, MI. Ron is survived by his beloved niece Laura and nephew Jeff (Mary Maurer). He is also survived by his aunt Janet Smith and cousins: James, Nicole, Lisa, and Jessica. Ron is survived by his father-in- law Jay Wiseman (Roberta), brother-in-law Chad, and sister-in-law Sherry. He was preceded in death by his parents.

      Memorials may be made to the Ithaca Food Bank - 218 E. Newark St., Ithaca, MI 48847 or Gratiot Animals in Need (G.A.I.N.) - 1696 W. Monroe Rd., St. Louis, MI 48880. Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, Ithaca, Michigan.