1

The Voice of The Eagles Passes On: Joe Mahan

(C. Proxmire, March 20, 2013)

It was just on Feb. 15 that Joe Mahan was honored at a Ferndale basketball game with the dedication of a scoreboard in his honor.  “Joe Mahan, Voice of the Eagles,” reads the board, honoring over 60 years of youth mentorship and support of local sports programs.

On March 19, at age 86, Mahan passed away following hospitalization from a heart attack.  He is survived by wife Barbara, sons Mark and Peter and daughter Tracey.  He has 8 grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

Mahan graduated from Lincoln High in 1944, and married Barbara in 1950.  His family is the namesake of Mahan Street and he has been honored several times through the years for his commitment to athletics and youth.

According to C & G Newspapers, several people spoke fondly of Mahan at the Feb. 15th dedication, which took place at halftime of a game.  “Joe Mahan will always be ‘Mr. Ferndale and the Voice of the Eagles’ to me. He has dedicated his life to giving area students the opportunity to learn life’s lessons in a school setting, on the athletic field and in the community. He is a mentor to many — including me — and is the ultimate humanitarian. I thank Joe for all the fond memories we shared,”  said former Ferndale Principal and Athletic Director Michael Kownacki.

Current Head Coach and teacher Herb Goliday said, “Anybody who has played basketball for Ferndale High during my generation and prior had the honor of having Joe Mahan announce their games. Joe has been an inspiration to us and a true representation of a ‘Ferndale Eagle.’”

Visitation Thursday 1-8 pm with Service Friday 11 am at Wessels & Wilk Funeral Home 23690 Woodward Ave. Burial White Chapel Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to The Alzhiemers Association.

If you would like to add any information, memories or photos to this article, please contact editor@ferndale115.com.