Youko Dowling

Youko Dowling, 87, of Placerville, California passed away on Friday, September 24th, 2021 at her home surrounded by family. She is survived by 6 children Lorraine (Greg) LaGro, Cathy (Stefan) Schaefer, Christine (Chris) Kraning, Jim (Charlene) Dowling, Laura (Jerry) Stockman, and Tom (Gail) Dowling; 16 grandchildren, and 17 great grandchildren; sister Reiko and brother Takeo. She was preceded in death by her husband of 40 years Leo Dowling also by son Allan; brothers Mitsuo and Kunio.

Born in Uenohara, Japan November 16th, 1933 Youko was the daughter of Sadao and Toshiko. As a young adult she was employed at the Mayor’s Office as a historian, and then Yokohama Engineer Depot as a policewoman. Youko moved to the United States in 1957 and raised her family in Redondo Beach and Torrance, California. She was a housewife and head waitress at Miyako Restaurant. Youko and Leo retired to the mountains of Camino, California in 1996. She enjoyed hiking, gardening, journaling, singing, dancing, reading, and country living. She was an award-winning haiku master and taught haiku at Placer Buddhist Church. Youko belonged to St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Placerville where she was a participant of the Ladies Society, led a Rosary prayer group, and visited the sick as a member of the Legion of Mary. Youko will be remembered for her outgoing friendly personality and giving spirit.

A Rosary and Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday October 14th, 2021 at 10:30am at St. Patrick's Catholic Church 3109 Sacramento Street, Placerville followed by the internment at the St. Patrick's Cemetery.

Contributions in Youko's name may be made to Snowline Hospice of El Dorado County, 6520 Pleasant Valley Rd., Diamond Springs, CA 95619.