William J. McGowan, 83, of St. Marys, OH passed away Thursday May 14, 2026 in the Everheart Inpatient Hospice Unit at Wayne Hospital in Greenville, OH.

He was born April 29, 1943 in Spencerville, OH to Robert and Grace "Joline" (Roberts) McGowan.

On May 4, 1968 in St. Marys, OH he married M. Janet Howell, who survives.

Also survived by brother Patrick McGowan of St. Marys, OH; numerous nieces and nephews; and special buddy Austin Hauptstueck of Indianapolis, IN.

Preceded in death by parents Robert and G. Joline McGowan; infant son William J. McGowan, Jr.; and brother Robert (Kathy) McGowan.

He attended St. Marys Memorial High School, prior to enlisting in the United States Navy. While in the Navy, he served for the Fighting Seabees aboard the USS Kittyhawk during the Vietnam War. A graduate of the Hobart School of Welding in Troy, OH, he worked for the Marion Power & Shovel Co. and Lima Tank Plant, before eventually retiring from the Minster Machine Co.

His favorite pastimes included fishing and taking walks. He loved all kinds of animals, especially dogs. Bill was passionate about General Motors muscle cars, having owned several (including an Oldsmobile 442).

Rites are scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday May 21, 2026 at the Miller Funeral Home 1605 Celina Road (Ohio 703 West Chapel) in St. Marys.

Military funeral honors will be conducted at the funeral home following the service.

Visitation 4 - 7 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home.

Condolences may be expressed and memories shared with Bill's family via: www.millerfuneralhomes.net or the Miller Funeral Homes Facebook Page.