July 11, 1991 — Dec. 20, 2015

Blaine Paul McGowan, 24, of South Haven, died Sunday, Dec. 20, 2015.

He was born July 11, 1991, to Paul and Barbara McGowan, in Lawton, Oklahoma. Blaine was the big brother to Mikayla and Miles, who looked up to him with the utmost respect and admiration.

Blaine was a 2010 graduate of South Haven High School, where he played football, basketball, baseball and wrestled. He was also a 2014 graduate of Defiance College, Defiance, Ohio, where he received his bachelor’s in Criminal Justice. He also was an integral part of the Defiance Yellow Jacket football team, where he played middle linebacker.

Blaine was also a member of the National Guard Cavalry scout unit, where he was considered one of the best soldiers in his unit.

Blaine was employed as a production supervisor for American Axle in Three Rivers.

Blaine was a leader by nature and was always looking to push people to do their best and to their potential. He was always laughing and brought joy to many people. Blaine’s passing has brought much sadness to many, but the way he lived his life also brought happiness to many. He will be remembered as a son, brother, friend, soldier, leader, football player and an all around great guy.

Blaine is survived by his father, Paul McGowan, (Christina); his mother, Barbara McGowan; sister, Mikayla; brother, Miles; and step-sisters, Ciara and Regan; grandparents, Kenneth McGowan, Glen Cornwell, A.J. Ward, Barbara Cornwell; aunts and uncles, Donna Maxson, Cassie Cornwell, Glen Cornwell Jr., Brad and Dee Tanksley, Eddie Sparks and Jeff Sparks; along with many other family and friends.

Visitation will be held from 1:30 to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2015, at the Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church, 06321 Blue Star Highway, South Haven, Michigan 49090. Funeral services will follow the visitation at 3 p.m. at the church with Pastor Eric Jarvis officiating.

Contributions may be made in Blaine’s memory to the South Haven High School Football Team. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.

The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven, 637-0333.