Stuart W. McDowell

Stuart W. “Stu” McDowell

Age 75 of Evergreen Park, IL, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2022 at Hines VA Medical Center, with his wife and family by his side.

Born July 20, 1947 in Alma, Michigan, Stu was a son of Walter and Ethel McDowell. He spent time living in Michigan and Montana before he moved to Illinois. He was a retired Electronics Engineer who worked on telephone systems. With his education and experience, you could count on him to fix almost anything!

Stu was a proud Vietnam Veteran having served in the United States Air Force. He could easily be spotted wearing his Vietnam Veteran hat proudly at almost all times. He adorned his hat with many pins that symbolized veterans. He proudly flew the POW/MIA flag at home and at the cottage in remembrance of his fellow service men and women. 

Stu enjoyed fishing and spending time at the cottage in Sister Lakes, Michigan with family. Stu liked wandering around the Swap-O-Rama flea market scouting out  bargains and a good polish sausage sandwich. He frequented antique shops and farm stands all over Michigan looking for that special find and seasonal offerings. He enjoyed cooking and sharing recipes with friends and family. Stu could be found watching old Westerns or a good old fashioned war movie on TV when he was lounging in his favorite recliner chair at home or at the cottage. 

In 2019, Stu attended the Honor Flight which recognized him and many others for their dedicated service to the United States Armed Forces. He greatly enjoyed this experience and even got a police escort home after he returned to Midway airport.

Survivors include his loving wife of 51 years; Gloria (née Keller) McDowell; children, Heidi (Chris) Morgan, Heather (Matt) Doyle, and Holly (Paul) Kobelt; grandchildren Abby Morgan, Emma Morgan, Dermott Doyle, and Matthew Doyle; siblings Barb Brehm, Leon McDowell, Elaine Wymore, Patricia Lyden, and Shirley Bradley; brother-in law, Robert Keller; and numerous nieces, nephews and many special friends - too many to mention.

Stu was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Ethel McDowell, and his grandson, Liam Doyle.                                                                        

Funeral Monday 10:45 a.m from Beverly Ridge Funeral Home, 10415 S. Kedzie Ave. to Most Holy Redeemer Church Mass 11:30 a.m. Visitation Sunday 3:00 - 8:00 p.m. 773-779-4411

Stu will be laid to rest privately at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, IL following Full Military Air Force Honors and Committal Prayers.  

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