Raymond H. 'Ray' McDowell

RAYMOND H. “RAY” MCDOWELL

Edgewood

Raymond H. "Ray" McDowell, 81, of Edgewood, Iowa, 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 at 3 p.m. Friday, Oct. 8, at the Silver Creek United Methodist Church, in Monti, Iowa. 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, Iowa, the only child to Harry and Ida (Johnston) McDowell. Ray was united in marriage with Joyce Uptegraph on Nov. 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, Iowa; his six children, Shelley Gorsh, Mesa, Ariz., Dan (Chris) McDowell, Manchester, Iowa, Brian McDowell, Dyersville, Iowa, Gary (Pam) McDowell, Rowley, Iowa, Amy (Mike) Shipley, Manchester, Iowa, and Meri (Mike Spradley) Helmrichs, Centerville, Iowa; 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.