Spring Grove, Illinois Community Mourns Legendary Waukegan West High School Multi-Sport Coach Richard “Rick” Mowen Jr., Survived by Wife Barbara and Family
January 5, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on January 5, 2026
Springs Grove, Illinois, and Des Moines, Iowa, communities are grieving the loss of a cherished sports icon, Richard E. ‘Rick’ Mowen Jr.
Richard ‘Rick’ Mowen Jr. succumbed to illness on December 31, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and joy in the hearts of many.
Born on August 7, 1940, in Des Moines, Iowa, to parents Richard and Bertha (Bunten) Mowen, Richard Mowen Jr. was a pillar of strength and kindness in the Illinois-Iowa sports scene.
His athletic journey began at Dundee High School, where he and his sibling shone brightly for the Cardunals, representing the unified spirit of the four towns.
Rick's prowess continued at the University of Iowa, where he dominated both baseball and football, guiding his teams to numerous triumphs.
Beyond his athletic feats, Rick's true greatness lay in mentoring generations of young athletes through his unwavering coaching presence.
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The Late Richard Mowen Jr. Shaped Lives Through 47 Years of Coaching Excellence
Post-University of Iowa, Coach Mowen embarked on a coaching odyssey across Spirit Lake, Waukegan West High School, College of Lake County, North Park, and Carthage College.
His leadership at Waukegan West High School culminated in an Illinois State Baseball Championship in 1983 and a historic Division III football NCAA tournament run.
Over four decades, Rick's teams secured countless conference titles, regional crowns, and sectional honors, while nurturing future professionals and shaping lives across five generations.
Inducted into the Illinois High School Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame, his impact transcended statistics—leaving an indelible mark on Illinois sports culture.
Outside the field, Rick embraced nature as an avid outdoorsman, finding joy in hunting, fishing, and golfing with family.
His passing leaves behind a profound legacy of love: surviving wife Barbara ‘Bobbe’ Mowen, children Randall J. Mowen, Julie (Calvin) Knutsen, grandchildren Lucas, Evan, Sophia, Cole, Reece, Rylee, Kaycie, Randall, Kaeden, siblings James D. Mowen and Elle K. Fiene, and a extended family united in grief and gratitude.
A memorial service will take place in Spring 2026. In lieu of flowers, contributions to Chain of Lakes Community Bible Church support Rick's enduring impact.
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Suruchi, a passionate sports writer and business management student, celebrates athletic excellence through insightful storytelling.
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