Fairhaven - Henry B. McGowan of Fairhaven, died February 13, 2009, at Alden Court Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Fairhaven. He was the son of the late Thomas A. and Flora (Lewis) McGowan.
Born in Fairhaven, Mr. McGowan was a graduate of Fairhaven High School. In sports, he played center on the varsity basketball team. In track-field events, he was awarded the Whitworth Trophy, winning first place medals in various field events, starting in his sophmore year. He held the Bristol County high jump record for four years. In his senior year he set a new Massachusetts high jump record at Harvard Stadium.
Mr. McGowan was employed by the Morse Twist Drill Company for a few years before moving to work at the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company at Akron, Ohio
During his stay at Akron he studied voice with professor John T. Stein, head of the music department at Akron University. Mr Stein invited him to sing in his male quartet at the High Street Church of Christ. Mr Mcgowa was also active with solo, duet and choral work in the Akron area.
Upon his return to Fairhaven, Mr. McGowan rejoined the former Morse Twist Drill Company as a department foreman for ten years. He was then hired by the former Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, New Bedford Plant, as a quality control inspector for twenty three years, retiring in 1979.
Mr. McGowa was the church soloist at the former North Congregational Church in New Bedford for five years.
Mr. McGowan was a member, choir member, and church soloist for thirty five years at the Unitarian Memorial Church in Fairhaven.
Mr. McGowan's other musical activities included, Masonic and Eastern Star installations, weddings, male quartets and choral work in the New Bedford area, and throughout Massachusetts.
He was the brother of the late Thomas A. McGowan, Jr., Harold McGowan and Lawrence R. McGowan.
Survivors include a daughter Jane McGowan and son David McGowan.
Remembrances may be made to Alden Court Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Attn. Brad Truini - Activities Dept., 389 Alden Road, Fairhaven, Ma. 02719
Private Arrangements are with the Wilson Chapel of New Bedford, Ma.