Donald Anthony Dowling

Donald A. Dowling

Donald Anthony Dowling, of Gerton, NC, passed away at his residence October 27, 2009. He was born August 16, 1923 to Leroy James and Regina (Rupp) Dowling. He was the oldest of three brothers.

Those that knew Donald were blessed; he had lived life to the very fullest and was always there when you needed him.  He had an unmatched ability to make those around him happy and he enriched the lives and spirits of those who knew him.  Donald always had a smile, a special twinkle in his eyes, and love in his heart.  He loved his family and friends with such passion that you couldn't help but to learn from his example of strength through unwavering love and devotion.  Each of us enters this world gracefully, and so by the grace of God did our father exit this world gracefully with integrity, respect, and dignity.

Donald married Suzanne Armandine (Ducroc) Dowling while serving our country during WWII.  After 62 years of marriage, Suzanne died in 2008.  Together they raised 7 children. Donald remarried in 2009 to his long-time companion and friend Herta Abesser.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Suzanne (2008), son Jean Pierre (1966), brother Leroy James (2000), sister-in-law Rosemary (1968), and grandson Jack A. Schaefer (2008).

He is survived by his six daughters; Michele Schaefer (William), Patricia Dowling, Pamela Mersberger (James), Linda Ische, Chantal Collins (Chester) and Suzette Dupuis (Paul); 13 grand-children, Alex, Scott, Melissa, Jake (Kristen), Josh, Chelsi, Jace, Justin, Evan, Chester, Jean Pierre, Donald, and Mike; 5 great-grand children; Doral, Jazmine, Macguire, Ty, and Derek; brother Philip(Cecile); sister-in-law Helen; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, November 2, 2009 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 5101 Schofield Street, Monona, with Father John M. Meinholz presiding. A visitation will be held prior to service beginning at 10:00 am. Inurnment services with Military Honors will be held at 2:30 pm at Forest Hill Cemetery.

Memorial donations can be made to Four Season's Hospice, 571 South Allen Rd, Flat Rock, NC 28731. 

Cress

Funeral and Cremation Service

3325 E. Washington, Madison WI 53704

608-249-6666