Gary Dowling

     Gary Leon Dowling was born on November 8,1939, in Colby, Kansas to Jay and Ethel (Galloway) Dowling. Gary grew up in Council Bluffs, Iowa. He attended country school through fifth grade and graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School. On May 2, 1964 Gary was married to Ruth Ann McCurley and to this union two sons were born, Jamie and Dirk. He dedicated 37 years of his career to Union Pacific Railroad, where he worked as a switchman, brakeman, and conductor. He took great pride in his work and was respected for his strong work ethic and commitment throughout his years on the railroad.

     Gary was a man of deep faith and service. He devoted many years to his church, serving as an elder, treasurer, and member of the advisory board. Gary was an accomplished artist and loved to share his creativity with others. He was honored to be the Favorite Artist at the Harrison County Fair for three years. Gary also had a passion for adventure and being outdoors. He and his family enjoyed traveling, camping, biking, snow skiing, and water skiing, making countless memories along the way. Gary treasured the experiences that brought his family together. His life was a testament to service, creativity, and the importance of spending time with those he loved.

     Gary died on Sunday, July 26, 2026, at his home in Missouri Valley, Iowa at the age of 86 years, eight months, and 18 days.

     Gary was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Jay Dowling, Mary Stearns, Vergie Carpenter and Dorothy Sanderson. He is survived by his wife, Ann Dowling and sons; Jamie Dowling and Dirk Dowling and his wife Theresa Dowling, all of Missouri Valley; grandchildren; Connor Dowling, Aubrey Dowling, Gabriel Dowling, and Elizabeth Donnor; siblings, Sharon and her husband Larry Dougherty of Bellevue, Nebraska, and David Dowling and his wife Vicki of Treynor, Iowa; and many other relatives and friends.