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Joseph Aloysius "Joe" McGowan

Joseph McGowan Obituary

McGOWAN
JOSEPH ALOYSIUS "JOE", suddenly on April 15, 2007, of Essington PA, formerly of Media. Adored son of Mary Mulholland and Joseph C. McGowan (Linda); loving brother of Meghan M. Rush (Michael) and Jennifer R. Clark (Michael); proud uncle to Madalyn, Lauren and his goddaughter, Caitlyn. Relatives and friends are invited to his Viewing on Monday eve, from 6 to 9 P.M., and to his Funeral on Tuesday morning, 9 A.M., at THE ROBERT L. D'ANJOLELL MEMORIAL HOME OF BROOMALL, 2811 West Chester Pike, Broomall PA. Funeral Mass, 11 A.M., St. Francis of Assisi Church, Springfield. Int SS. Peter and Paul Cemetery. Contributions in Joe's memory to DELCO Suicide Prevention Awareness Task Force, P.O. Box 175, 4 State St., Media PA 19063-1413 would be appreciated.

www.danjolell.com

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Published by Philadelphia Inquirer/Philadelphia Daily News on May 10, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Joseph McGowan

62 Entries

Mike McGowan

May 5, 2008

Its Cindo de Dayo and even know its Monday, I know Id be getting a call from Joe and I shouldnt really lie, I may have been the one calling him too see whos house the BBQ was at for this joyous holiday!! Miss ya brother... Keep on watching over all of us!

Janet McFadden

May 5, 2008

Joe,
Your legacy carries on. You will never be forgotten in the hearts of those who love you. Please continue to give your Mom and family the strength they need to carry on and cherish your memories. Love, Janet (McFadden)

Laura W

May 4, 2008

There aren't too many days that go by when Joe hasn't popped into my head. It's hard to believe it's been over a year since he left us here on Earth. I continue to remember his vibrant personality and smile.

February 25, 2008

Happy Birthday Joe!

Lynn Maslo

July 24, 2007

Joe,
You are in our thoughts and prayers everyday. Your spirit has touch each and every one of us in so many ways. Watch over your family and protect them for they miss you so. Help them to heal one day at a time.When they are sad, lean them a hand, show them the way to heal. You hold a special place in all of hearts.We miss you so.
Love Always
Aunt Lynn

The Shore kids

July 4, 2007

Meghan Rush

June 5, 2007

I have taken a while to write, although I read these entries regularly.

Joe- I can not begin to ask the difficult 'what if' questions when it comes to living life without you here with us; there will forever be a piece of me missing. Instead, I will remember and be comforted by the way you touched the lives of so many. It is summer- your favorite time of year and Sea Isle & BBQ’s will not be the same without you but I am comforted knowing your spirit will carry on with all those who loved you. Watch over us and keep us safe, we all need a guardian angel.

To all who shared in the life of someone who I am proud to call my brother; thank you for your compassion, prayers & support during this difficult time. We are humbled by the outpouring of love and selflessness we have been shown over the past few months.

Kristen McColgan

June 4, 2007

Mary, Joe, Megan, Jen and Linda,
You are all in my heart and prayers, and especially now that some time has passed. you never realized what an impact he had on all of our lives, he is truly missed. Meeting him in 6th grade down Sea Isle City would have to be one of my fondest memories, b/c it was after that that we became such good friends. The ski trip is up there, also! He was a tremendous friend, good listener, and he always put others first. I miss him dearly and i will always hold a special place in my heart for him. I love you Joe and miss you terribly. God Bless.

maryjo mcgowan mcgowan

May 28, 2007

joe, love you, and miss you. love,maryjo

Deborah George

May 18, 2007

Joe,Mary,Jennifer,Meghan&Linda
There is nothing I can do, to make Little Joe come back. There are no words I can say, that can replace his words you long to hear.There are no answer's I can give, that will satisfy your questions.There is not another soul I can introduce you to that will ever replace Joe's. And, there is no love I can offer that will ever replace the love you all shared. I can not promise all your broken hearts will ever be complete. I will not say it could have been worse I will not deny it was a tragedy, I will not lie and tell all of you he will come back, but Joe never really left. I do promise all of you that Joe hears you when you all speak, I will say he loves all of you, no matter the distance. I will not deny Joe is a better place And , i will not lie, Joe is waiting to greet all of you someday. Joe is every step you take, he is everything you do, he is in the air you all breathe, he is every beat of all your hearts.Joe is the wind, you can not see him but you will always feel him.

My prayer are with all of you,
Love you all,
Debbie,Little Roland,Maggie,Steph & kevin

Joey Scannapieco

May 16, 2007

Joe,
I can remember walking through the halls of NCO together...Two young men starting out striving to meet the same goals. Quickly we became friends and I am sure everyone can figure out the rest...We had a lot of great times, laughs and heartache. You helped me after losing Leigh. You were by my side every step of the way. Nothing could keep you away. You were determined to help me overcome any obtactle that was in my path. When I was down, you picked me up. I cannot thank you enough. Joe, you will be missed so much. Words cannot express the pain we are all going through. I find comfort in knowing that you are looking down over all of us making sure we are ok. That's what you did while you were here and I know in my heart that you will continue to do the same from above. I miss all of the fun times we had...BBQ's, Phillies Games or just hanging out at my parents house. All of our memories will never be forgotten. You believed in my when I was in doubt. Your strength helped me see the light. Continue to shine, Joe. I am looking forward to the day we meet again. I know your smiling face will be there to greet me.

Love,
Rizzo

paul t. kelly

May 16, 2007

From the ice rink to the poker table, the Joe I knew was always up for the "game". I am truly remiss for not taking him up more often on his invitations to lace-up my skates, and play with him in late-night hockey games. After we all recover from the pain that Joe's unexpected absence has left us with, we can and will, celebrate that eternally memorable spirit that Joe has left us with. Godspeed amigo. "see you on the d.s.o.m." - r.w. 1973

Joe Rodia and Family

May 15, 2007

Attending the services the last couple of days has truly allowed our family to experience a small piece of what Joe was all about. Joe's family should be very proud.

Joe's eulogy today was beautifully read and allowed me to learn about a great man. I only wish I would have had the chance to meet someone who was able to leave such a lasting impact on so many people.

To Joe's family, be proud that he was loved by so many and more so that he was able to give back that love to everyone he met because that is the sign of the great family he had around him.

From our family to yours, you are in our prayers and continue to share all the good that Joe shared with others.

The Smiths

May 15, 2007

Deepest sympathy goes to Mary, Megan,Jen and the rest of the McGowan family. We watched Joe grow up on our Court and while playing with Adam and John. All of the children from that time are all grown now - time flies. It's hard to believe Joe is no longer with us, but Joe is in a better place. God Bless Him!

Rick Amanto

May 15, 2007

The world has lost a truly great guy,
and the thought of this just makes me cry.
But heaven is now a better place,
with the arrival of Jose's smiling face.
Someday I hope to laugh with him again,
a man so many called their friend.

Colleen Harvey Tegler

May 14, 2007

I am so sorry for the loss of such an amazing person. Joe touched the lives of so many with that wonderful smile of his!! He enjoyed life, he loved spending time with his family and friends and always made others laugh!! I will miss you so much Joe and I will especially miss your special hugs!!! Please watch over all of us! Love, Colleen

Chris Haberlin

May 14, 2007

My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Joe was a great guy and I always had fun times with him when i visted PA. He will be missed.

David Adams and family

May 14, 2007

There is absolutely no words to describe the sorrow for the loss of Joe.
He was family to anyone who shared moments with him and will be missed dearly.
My deepest sympathy to the Mcgowan family

Brianne Donahue

May 14, 2007

Joe was a wonderful person who will be greatly missed. One of my fondest memories of Joe is when he organized a ski trip for all his friends back in sophomore year of high school. We had a blast and it was because of Joe. My sincerest condolences to the McGowan family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Laura W.

May 14, 2007

I met Joe late last year and was immediately drawn to his carefree nature and happy disposition. He always had a positive outlook on life and looked for the good in people.
One night I called him in tears, not being able to figure out an answer to a problem I was having. I was distraught and called Joe who comforted me. He calmly gave me some of the best advice I've gotten in life. This problem seemed so huge and in minutes, it was small and I knew just what to do. Joe's guidance really came at a time when I needed it most.
It was wonderful to have a chance to read all of the entries and begin to grieve and celebrate this incredible life.
Joe's family and friends have been in my heart, my thoughts, and my prayers.
Joe's smile, his jokes, his laughter, will all be sorely missed.

Bob Farrington (Jr.)

May 14, 2007

Joe was a great kid who will be sorely missed. I have many great memories of Joe, we always had great times. He was an all around great guy and friend who always made those around smile.

Michael Jennetta

May 14, 2007

In the times I spent with Joe, he always left an impact. Constant laughter, good times, and a just a good overall sense of well being. I am fortunate to have met him, and I am glad my cousin (Jack) and him were as close as they were; it meant a lot to both of them. Joe, you will be missed but never forgotten; may God keep you and your family in the palms of his hands. With love and respect,
Michael A. Jennetta.

James Grugan

May 14, 2007

Mary and Joe and Family,
There are no words! Please know that you are in our constant thoughts and prayers.
Grugan and Earnie

Russell Ditnes

May 14, 2007

Though I only briefly knew Joe, in the time I spent with him I did know that he was genuine, the kind of person that would help you out even if he didn't know you well. That's a rare thing.

Steve Solomon

May 14, 2007

Very sorry to hear this news.
Wish you and your family the best of health during this terrible time.

Tina Dell

May 14, 2007

To Joe's family and Friends:
Joe will be missed, he was a wonderful guy. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Bob Purpura

May 14, 2007

To the McGowans, I am deeply sorry to hear about the loss of Joe. From the times I spent with him and the thoughtful messages on this guest book, you can't help but believe that he has had a positive impact on the lives of so many. To my buddies that were very close to Joe, thank you for giving me the opportunity to meet such a great person, he was always a pleasure to hang out with. Joe, even though you are not with us physically anymore, I'm sure you will always be by our side, take care of us in Sea Isle this summer. We'll miss you bud.

Patrick McGowan

May 14, 2007

Joe you will obviously be missed by everyone immensely… fortunately we all have many happy memories to help us get by in this tough time. My thoughts and prayers go out to your family and friends! Even though we were not technically related you always made it seem as though we were. I will miss you my friend!

Robert Farrington, Sr.

May 13, 2007

No matter how long any of us goes on, Joe McGowan will obviously be forever young in our hearts and in our minds. I choose to remember this marvelous young man as a warm and happy human being, someone who was always respectful and caring towards others. I once heard someone say "what has passed, let it be....what is to come, let it be better." May you rest now in a better place, knowing that we will all miss you, all of the time. From the Farrington family to the McGowans, please know that our hearts go out to you at this difficult time. Love, Bob, Lena, Bob Jr., Katie, Michael & Ethan.

Jill Harvey

May 13, 2007

Words cannot describe what a great person Joe was. He was hilarious, kind, caring, fun and a great friend. Joe could make anyone laugh and you felt lucky just to be around him. He had such a huge impact on the lives of so many people and he will be missed by everyone that knew him. He is at peace now and is watching over all of us. I will forever cherish all of the memories we shared and look forward to the day when we meet again. Thanks for the great times we had, thanks for your friendship and most of all thanks for being you. I love you and will miss you so much.

Mick & Eileen Kelly

May 12, 2007

It sometimes seems only days ago when I first met young Joe, and after just ninety minutes I must admit that I came to disliked him immensely. For you see young Joe was in goal for the Under-10 Rose Tree – Media (RTM) traveling soccer team against our Brandywine Youth Club (BYC) team. While BYC totally outplayed RTM in a Columbus Day Tournament (I recall our goalie facing but two shots the entire game), Joe held BYC scoreless in regulation and overtime. BYC likely generated two dozen genuine scoring opportunities only to have each shot turned back by the RTM keeper. In fifteen years of coaching and watching literally hundreds of youth soccer games, no one before or since played more magnificently in goal than Joe on that October day when we first met.

Fortunately, after considerable encouragement from many players on the BYC U-10 team, Joe joined the BYC U-11 team the following year, and for the next two years. Our BYC team composed largely of rascals and characters now had one more with the addition of Joe. With Joe in goal, we instantly became one of the leagues top teams. He was an equally gifted field player who came to split time in goal and at both forward and fullback positions.

Joe was one of the few boys possessing the entire package - tremendous natural ability, athleticism, speed and drive. But, above all this, I will most remember Joe’s spirit and enthusiasm. Like most on ‘Blue Thunder’, Joe would often test the patience of the coaches. Yet, his Irish charm and his boyish smile would always quickly melt the heart of even the toughest coach.

While almost fifteen years too late, I must apologize to his mother. On more than one occasion when I would see Mary driving up after practice, I would send Joe, for no reason at all, to run laps. (Coaches can be rascals too - paybacks could be great.) Then I’d laugh as Joe walking off the field would receive an earful from his mother about misbehaving - because it was obvious to Mary that Joe would only be running laps if there had been some sort of problem. Boy, the things we remember! A similar approach with his father had little impact as I suspect Joe Sr. had more than a tad of rascal in him at that age.

To say that Joe was a great kid is not enough. He was a remarkable young man whose company I always thoroughly enjoyed.

We can not begin to comprehend the depth of this tragedy. Our hearts go out to his parents and family.

Coach Mick Kelly
BYC Blue Thunder Soccer Team
Eileen Kelly

May 12, 2007

If,when we leave for heaven and so many wonderful things are remembered and written about us by so many then our job here on earth was well done. Joe's parents should hold on that and know they did the job they were to do on this earth. Peace in your hearts for your son, brother and dear friend to so many.
He will live on in memories and a smile will appear on your face.

John Bracken

May 12, 2007

Joe was a truly amazing person and a born leader. I always admired his attitude towards life. He inspired me in many ways. He is missed.

Eleanor Gallagher/Armstrong

May 11, 2007

Mary/Joe....my heart is breaking for you at the very difficult time.
Joe was the best!!! We're keeping you in our prayers.
Love, Eleanor & Dobie

Joe Rodia and Family

May 11, 2007

Our sympathy and prayers are with the families of Joe McGowan. Although some of us never met young Joe, our father always said that he was a class act and always treated him and everyone with respect. It is very obvious from reading all the responses that Joe was a great friend, brother, son and uncle who will be missed by many.
Remember all the good Joe brought to all those he touched so positively.

Miranda Cancro

May 11, 2007

Joe,
I can say you were one of my best guy friends in high school. We always had so much fun. You would sleepover ever weekend with Boob and Chad and we would laugh for hours. You lite up a room, made everyone laugh, have the best dance moves, and always a joy to be around. Your family and friends will be in my thoughts and prayers. I miss you and love you.

Cyndy Harakal

May 11, 2007

Though I didn't know Joe I did know his mother Mary from working together. I am so sorry for your loss and my prayers are with you during this time.

Jenn Lile

May 11, 2007

May God bless you and your family during this time of sorrow. Joe touched so many people, and will be missed greatly. Joe, I will hold onto so many memories. Crazy college days ( you setting off my fire extinguisher), fun times at the Flyers game, Taco nights, and remember you for always being there for your friends. I miss you so much, and am so thankful that you were able to be part of mine and stu's wedding, because we both love you! I will find peace in knowing you are safe and are watching over us, until we meet again.. Jenn

Lauren Trout

May 11, 2007

Joe,
I miss you so much. I miss your advice. I miss your laugh. I miss your "check in to make sure everything's alright in Florida" phone calls. You are one of my best friends in the whole world and you always will be. I will never forget all of our laughs and good times. From Cabrini, to Sea Isle, to the time you took me to the "Woods" and i thought it was a bar. You love telling that story...I know you are around me and watching over. I love you so much! I can't wait to see you again.
Love
Lauren

Sandy Robbins

May 11, 2007

To the McGowan Family,

Our deepest condolences are with you at this difficult time. Our prayers and sympathy are with you.

Tom Gagliardi

May 11, 2007

I want to express my deepest sympathy and offer my condolences to the entire McGowan family for their loss of a good man. Joey will be truly missed. He was a great person, free spirited and I really enjoyed his friendship. My thoughts and prayers are with the McGowan family. God will take care of him in heaven. I know, because I asked him to.

MTF

May 11, 2007

No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.

Stu Lile

May 10, 2007

Hey Joe, I miss you buddy. I'll never forget the great times we had playing lacrosse, softball, going down the shore or just hanging out. You are a great friend, always there to talk to and always had something good the say. Everything was more fun with you around. I will always miss the times that you would just stop by to say hi or come over for tacos. I will miss you forever and I look forward to the day that we meet again. You are a great friend to many and considered a brother to me. I know you'll be watching over us and keeping us safe. I love you buddy and I'll miss you. Take care...

Tom Young

May 10, 2007

To the McGowan family,
Joey was a great friend and person. It was always a pleasure to be in his company. I could always depend on him to be in my corner. He was also a truly gifted lacrosse player. The passion and intensity he showed on the field was inspiring. I will miss him deary. God bless you all and God bless Joey. Rest in peace brother.
Love,

Jack McGuire

May 10, 2007

yo bud, a lot of what i kept thinking recently is what i would say if i knew i had one more chance to talk to ya. but i do have that chance. cause i know youre here with us. so this time im just gonna say, hey buddy, and that i miss ya. and along with more people than anyone could imagine, i just look forward to the day we meet again, and we're gonna pick up right where we left off. You can pick the first song. i love ya Joe, keep us safe....Jacko

Samantha Scannapieco

May 10, 2007

Joe your are a great guy,and you will be missed deeply. My family and I have known you for several years. This will be difficult to overcome, We will always be thinking of you. We send our sympathy and prayers to your family and friends.

Love,
The Scannapieco Family

John & Pat McMonagle

May 10, 2007

To Joe's parents, family and friends.
We are the parents of Kevin one of Joe's friends, and would just like for you to know how very much you are all in our thoughts and prayers.
We will always remember Joe in our prayers. God Bless

Steve Gana

May 10, 2007

To the McGowan Family:

You are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Joe was a special person who could always brighten a room. He will be missed by all who knew him. Joe will never be forgotten.

Mike McGowan

May 10, 2007

Joey will be missed by all of us who knew him and those of us who always wanted to be around him. He was one of the greatest guys I have ever met and hung around with. Joey was like the little brother that I never had. He touched us all with his awesome humor and undeniable friendship. Joey was the type of guy that would do anything for you in the drop of a hat and he will never ever be forgotten.

Erin Crawford

May 10, 2007

My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this tough time. Joe was simply the best. His smile, his sense of humor, and his thoughtfulness will be truly missed. I know Joe is in a happier place watching over us all. I love you Joe!

Erin Herm

May 10, 2007

Joe was one of my closest friends in high school and definitely the one I had the most fun with. I will never forget the times I shared with him, and I know in my heart he is at peace. To all Joe's family and friends you are in my thoughts and prayers and I will never forget Joe. He was a truly special person.

Kevin McMonagle

May 10, 2007

I cannot begin to say how sorry I am for the loss of your son, brother, and uncle Joe. He was a great friend and you couldn't help but have a good time while he was around. I will always remember these times. I miss you Joe.

Jim Reilly

May 10, 2007

Joe,was captain of the O'Hara lacrosse team and I refee a couple of their games and Joe was always the one I went to if I felt things were getting alittle out of control and Joe always made things right. He was a great kid with a grat smile and always a friendly HELLO
Jim Reilly

Erin DiGian

May 10, 2007

I wish all of Joe's family and friends my deepest sympathy. Everytime I hung out with Joe I knew I would have a good laugh. He was full of energy and fun and he will truly be missed.

Mary Kate McClafferty

May 10, 2007

My deepest sympathy for the loss of a wonderful person/friend who brightened all the lives of those who were fortunate to know him. I will truly miss him and cherish all of the happy memories he made.

Stephanie Scannapieco

May 10, 2007

Joe,

You will be missed by so many. You have touched so many of us in so many ways. I will cherish all of the good times you shared with me and my family. You were a great friend to my brother Joe and I will NEVER forget that. You helped him when he was at his weakest moment. You were a true friend and will never be forgotten.

My thoughts and prayers go out to your family. You were one of a kind and will be missed by everyone.

With Love,
Stephanie

Greg Krohmer

May 10, 2007

Joe's one of the funniest people I have ever met and is one of those guys everyone wants to be around. We are all so lucky to have Joe as a great friend! I could write a novel about all of the good times he had with all of us and the hilarious things he used to do. He could always make you laugh and you never knew would he would do next! Please let me know if you guys need anything and if you ever want me to stop over and we can share stories about Joe... I am there. You are all in my prayers.

Janet McFadden

May 10, 2007

Mary,Joe,Meghan,Jennifer & Linda,
God Bless you all during this most difficult time. Cherish the memories and rest knowing that he is at peace.
Love,
Janet (McFadden)

Mike Cassidy

May 10, 2007

My fondness memory of Joe would have to be when we were at the shore together (when I felt joe was his happiest). I was tyring to get one last weekend in before football camp started and my summer ended. I was obviously free-loading and did not know where I was going to shack up for the weekend.

Once Joe discovered my situation, he welcomed me into his father's beach-house with open arms. He offered me several "refreshments", shared with me some of his "homemade" pasta, and allowed me to grab a quick shower (and we still made it to happy hour on time).

I will always remember Joe for his witty charm and warm hospitality.

Rest in peace, Joe. I know you're in a happier place.

-Cass, SMM '94

Janeen Reilly

May 10, 2007

Joe was that person that everyone gravitated to. He was loved by so many and had such a special impact on everyone he met. He made me feel safe even though I knew I was going to get in troble. Joe and his whole family are in my prayers.

Lou Gana

May 10, 2007

My deepest sympathy to Joe's family and friends. Joe sense of humor and spontaneity was what made him one of a kind. I will always cherish the great times we had together. I'll miss you #3.

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