Raymond H. “Ray” McDowell

Raymond H. “Ray” McDowell, age 81, of Edgewood, IA, passed away peacefully on Oct. 1, 2021, at the Edgewood Convalescent Home, surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Ray’s life, a memorial service will be held on Friday, October 8, at 3 p.m., at the Silver Creek United Methodist Church, in Masonville, IA.  Family and friends may visit from 1 p.m., until the time of services at the church.  

 

Ray was born on April 23, 1940, in Cedar Rapids, IA, the only child to Harry and Ida (Johnston) McDowell. Ray was united in marriage with Joyce Uptegraph on November 19, 1961, and they were blessed with 6 children and 60 wonderful years together. Ray worked for CRST as a diesel mechanic, was a contract custodian for GTE, and later managed an apartment complex with Joyce. Ray was naturally skilled at fixing anything he touched, and he enjoyed every hour spent tinkering around the house.  He had an affinity for Dodge trucks, Polka music, and his dog Penny. Ray was a giant teddy bear at heart and his generosity was beyond measure with anyone who needed a hand. But, truth be told, Ray found no greater joy in his life than the hours spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  His kind and gentle heart could never get enough when it came to being surrounded by those he loved and cared for.  We will miss Ray with all of our hearts. 

 

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Ray include,

 

his loving wife Joyce McDowell, Edgewood, IA;

 

his 6 children,

Shelley Gorsh, Mesa, AZ,

Dan (Chris) McDowell, Manchester, IA,

Brian McDowell, Dyersville, IA,

Gary (Pam) McDowell, Rowley, IA,

Amy (Mike) Shipley, Manchester, IA,

and Meri (Mike Spradley) Helmrichs, Centerville, IA;

 

his 17 grandchildren, and 23 great-grandchildren.

 

Ray was preceded in death by his parents; and a grandson, Dylan McDowell. 

 

Ray’s family would like to thank all of the doctors, nurses, and staff who have helped Ray, and his family, through these most difficult days.  Your professionalism and compassion are appreciated more than you could know. 

 

Online condolences may be shared with Ray’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com.

Visitation

Silver Creek United Methodist Church
2898 110th Avenue, Masonville, Iowa, 50654
October 8th, 2021 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM

Memorial Service

Silver Creek United Methodist Church
2898 110th Avenue, Masonville, Iowa, 50654
October 8th, 2021 at 3:00 PM

4 comments on “Raymond H. “Ray” McDowell
  1. Steve Paulson says:

    Ray was a great man who I was honored to have as my father in-law for a few years. You will be missed Ray. My thoughts and prayers are with Joyce and the rest of his family.

  2. Joan Sherman says:

    So sorry for your loss, Emily.

  3. Mullis says:

    Butch worked with Ray many years ago. So sorry for your loss. Jo and Butch Mullis Prineville OR

  4. Mike and Sylvia Carr says:

    Joyce and Family,

    Our prayers are for you and your whole family in the loss of Ray.

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