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Daniel McGowan Obituary

Daniel P. "Dan" McGowan

Daniel P. "Dan" McGowan, 83, of Tiffin, passed away Tuesday evening, May 7, 2024, at St. Francis Home.

He was born Dec. 10, 1940, in Tiffin, to John and Marjorie (Rust) McGowan. He married Carolyn Lonsway and they later divorced. He married Carol Binder and she preceded him in death Sept. 13, 2021.

Dan's survivors include his sons, Scott (Rose) McGowan of Austin, Texas, and Bryan (Randa) McGowan of Medina; daughter, Tracey (Bob) Muniak of North Ridgeville; stepson, Jeff Decker of Wind Point, Wisconsin; stepdaughter, Pamela Decker of Fremont; brothers, Jack McGowan, James (Sandy) McGowan, and William (Lisa) McGowan; 11 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews who loved him.

He was also preceded in death by his parents; brother, Thomas McGowan; sister, Sue D'Agostino; and sister-in-law, Kay McGowan.

Dan graduated in 1959 from Tiffin Calvert High School. He started working at his dad's bar, McGowan's Tavern, when he was 13 years old. After turning 21, he worked part-time behind the bar and then moved to full-time in 1973. In 1976, Dan bought the bar from his father, John McGowan, who in turn had purchased it from his father, Bryan "Mac" McGowan. In 2009, McGowan's was remodeled after a devastating fire and re-opened in March, 2010, just in time for St. Patrick's Day. In 2023, Dan sold the bar to Hoptometry Brewing Company.

Dan was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Tiffin Elks Lodge 94, and Tiffin Eagles #402. He enjoyed watching football and was a dedicated fan of Notre Dame and also cheered for The Buckeyes. He enjoyed bowling in leagues for over 50 years, fishing, and golfing. Dan remained close to many of his classmates over the years and loved so many of the bar patrons who would stop by the bar to see him. Dan loved helping Carol run the flea market in Fremont and spending summers with family and friends at the family cottage on the lake.

Dan's funeral will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at St. Mary Catholic Church with the Rev. Matthew Rader officiating. A Rosary will be prayed 30 minutes prior to Mass. Burial will be at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Fremont.

Visitation for friends and family will be 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at Hoffmann-Gottfried-Mack Funeral Home & Crematory, 236 S. Washington St., Tiffin, Ohio, 44883, (419) 447-2424.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Francis Chiara Unit or Heartland Hospice.

Condolences may be sent and the guestbook signed at www.hgmackfuneralhome.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Review Times on May 11, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
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Sponsored by Hoffmann-Gottfried-Mack Funeral Home & Crematory - Tiffin.

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2 Entries

Sheilah Byrne (Earle)

September 30, 2025

Dan McGowan's family,
I want to express my sympathy and deep feelings for Dan! He was one of my best friends and buddy, like a family member. He had a Heart of Gold! He was sympathetic to everyone and just a good person. We would often go on "Road Trips" with many of our friends. We would have each other at our homes for celebrations and meals! Also, I would often visit him at his cottage and go on boat rides. There are numerous outings we would attend. I also was a care giver for his dear mom! She was a great lady who I would see her often to socialize with. I remember Dan'O (my name for him) coming home from work and dancing with his mom, which they both loved! He didn't have any enemies! He is remembered by me and in my heart forever! RIP Dan'O and remember you are loved by many. Sheilah Byrne

K.Ward

May 9, 2024

I cannot ever recall a time, even at my most dullest, that you didn't have that kind and full hearted smile. Growing up, the bar will always be happy memories of you and my Dad. Whenever we needed just that cheerful environment, just to relax, or a place close to home, you were there. Your love for our father, our family will always be cherished and all of the memories we were greatful to make and share with you. Like an Uncle, a very great family friend, to so many... We love you Dan! Endlessly in our hearts you've made such an everlasting impact.

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Memorial Events
for Daniel McGowan

May

14

Visitation

5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Hoffmann-Gottfried-Mack Funeral Home & Crematory

236 S. Washington St., Tiffin, OH 44883

May

15

Funeral service

10:00 a.m.

St. Mary Catholic Church

85 S. Sandusky St., Tiffin, OH 44883

Funeral services provided by:

Hoffmann-Gottfried-Mack Funeral Home & Crematory - Tiffin

236 S. Washington St., Tiffin, OH 44883

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