Ron McGowan’s Death Leaves the Ben Davis Community Mourning a Beloved Coach and Mentor

McGowan’s passing leaves friends, family, and athletes remembering his decades of dedication to the school.

September 22, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on September 22, 2026

The Ben Davis community is grieving after the death of Ron McGowan, a longtime coach, mentor, and supporter of Ben Davis athletics.

McGowan, a 1985 Ben Davis graduate, passed away this past week, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, leadership, and love for both his family and the community he served.

For the past 20 years, McGowan operated the scoreboard clock for varsity football and basketball games at Ben Davis.

His presence became a fixture at athletic events, where his reliability and calm demeanor earned him respect from coaches, players, and fans alike.

Beyond his official role, McGowan also devoted years to coaching youth football, shaping countless young athletes through discipline, encouragement, and genuine care.

Ben Davis Public Address Announcer Dave Lindsey McGowan before a recent game, asking for a moment of silence to remember “a GIANT part of Ben Davis Athletics.”

He praised McGowan not only as a friend to many but also as a dedicated husband and father.

McGowan was married to Heather McGowan, the school’s athletic director, and was the proud father of Korbyn and Braden.

Tributes poured in from classmates, teammates, and community members who described McGowan as more than just a coach.

Steve Wagers, who grew up alongside him, called McGowan a “classmate, teammate, friend, and brother,” while David George remembered him as “an unbelievable man and person” whose absence will be deeply felt.

Former players also credited McGowan with shaping not only their athletic skills but also their character.

Matt Graves reflected on how McGowan taught him lessons far beyond the playing field—about respect, responsibility, and what it meant to be a man.

Charles Anthony echoed those sentiments, writing,

Dozens of community members expressed their heartbreak on social media, remembering McGowan as a “Ben Davis Legend,” a “devoted friend,” and “an amazing guy who will be missed greatly.”

Many also extended prayers to his wife, children, and extended family.

Heather McGowan, his wife, has received an outpouring of condolences, with messages emphasizing Ron’s kindness, leadership, and the positive impact he left behind.

Friends and former colleagues described him as someone whose spirit will continue to live on through the lives he touched.

While the Ben Davis community mourns the death of Ron McGowan, his legacy as a mentor, coach, and friend remains firmly in place.

Generations of athletes will remember the lessons he taught, both on and off the field, and his contributions to the Wayne Township community will not be forgotten.

In honoring his memory, the community stands united in celebrating the life of a man who dedicated himself wholeheartedly to his family, his players, and his school.

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