Rex Lee Dowling

Rex has left the banks of the Thornapple River, the shores of the Grand River, the  waves of Lake Michigan and the solitude of Beaver Island for an even better place.  Rex passed away Friday, May 3, 2019 from lymphoma after a valiant one year fight, part of the time in remission.  Rex was born September 23, 1941 to Wayne Dowling SR and Helen (Gowlaski) Dowling.  His early years were spent in Lowell. In the early 1950’s his mother, Helen married Carl Kerekes and the family moved to Cascade where Rex attended Cascade school until it was back to Lowell High School where he graduated with the class of 1959.  Rex served 3 active years with the U.S. Navy after which he held jobs in the automotive industry ending with Kelvinator and GM as a journeyman hi-lo repairman. After retirement he helped his son start Beaverwood Tree Service. Rex was pre deceased by his mother, father, step father, brother Wayne and wife MarianDowling, many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.  Rex is survived by his wife of 54 years, Connie (Clemenz) Dowling;sons, Doug (Elaine), Greg Dowling and grandsons Dawson Victor and Preston Edward; step-grandchildren Jamie (Justin) Cooley and Jenny (Al) Williams; five step-great grandchildren; sisters, Gwen Zanella and Carla Kerekes Martin (Ron); half brothers, Dennis (Mae Dines) and David Dowling; sister in law Carol Clemenz Stull (Rick); many nieces, nephews and cousins.  Rex so enjoyed his family and loved showing the young ones his unique way of doing most everything. His favorite place was outdoors, that was where he felt closest to God along with hunting, fishing, and gardening, growing some of the biggest, flawless tomatoes that he shared with so many.  He felt very blessed to have his property on Beaver Island and his family made the most of their time there. He craved Connie’s cooking and was not shy about “ordering” exactly what he wanted and when.  Rex touched so many with his humor, knowledge, work ethic, and with so much interest in their lives.  We will sure miss this character who left us with so many unique and unforgettable memories.  Visitation will be Monday 4:00-800 PM at the Roth-Gerst Chapel, 305 N. Hudson, Lowell.  Private graveside services will be held with his cousin Pastor Ron Hansen, officiating at Oakwood Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to Beaver Island Health Care Center, 37304 King’s Hwy, Beaver Island, MI 49782.