Harold (Googan) McDowell
Harold (Googan) McDowell passed away peacefully on December 3, 2023, with his wife of 67 years by his side. He had a larger-than-life personality; he was dependable, kind, loud, loving, and smart as a whip. He will be sorely missed by all his friends and family.
Googan was born on April 9, 1934, in Scandia Kansas to Carl and Teresa McDowell, the youngest of six siblings. He grew up in Kansas playing every sport he could. In high school he lettered in football, track and field, basketball, and baseball. He met the love of his life Irene in high school, they married on September 2, 1956.
After a short stint in the Army, Googan attended Kansas State University and graduated in 1960.
After college, he began work as a civil engineer for the Bureau of Reclamation, where he would devote his entire career. His work as an engineer took him to Nebraska, Colorado and finally to Idaho in 1970, where he happily spent the rest of his life. He became the regional engineer in the early 80’s and finally retired in 1989.
The McDowells were blessed with three Children – Denise, Cindy, and Steven. Googan was an amazing devoted and involved husband and father. He never missed a game, recital or match and was enthusiastic in all his children’s endeavors. The family would spend their weekends camping, playing cards and fishing with amazing friends and neighbors that became more like family. He was blessed with two granddaughters, he loved them fiercely.
After retirement, Googan and Irene lived the good life, happy and healthy, for over 30 years. His life was filled with family, fishing, camping, trips to jackpot and countless poker games with his buddies. He played golf well into his eighties and made many friends at Spurwing, where he lived and played. Googan was an avid K-State and Boise State fan and never missed a game. He attended every one of his granddaughters’ sporting events and relished every event, sport, and activity he could join in on. He loved dogs, apple pie and a good steak. He especially loved Christmas and his birthday and was more excited about opening presents than any child ever was.
With declining physical health, Googan and Irene moved into assisted living earlier this year. Googan was still extremely sharp and was able to spend his final months with his wife, being pampered and taken care of. After both a K-State and a Boise State win on Saturday, Googan passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday morning with Irene sitting right next to him. His absence will be felt and mourned by countless friends and family.
Googan was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, and son Steven. He leaves behind his loving wife Irene, daughters Denise (Butch) and Cindy, along with his two granddaughters, Heather (Cody) and Megan (Chris) and his four beautiful great-grandchildren, Parker, Tucker, Mitch and Finley. Words cannot express how much they will miss the pillar of their family.
Arrangements are under the direction of Bowman Funeral Parlor of Garden City.