Joseph William Dowsett 94, passed away May 20, 2017. He was born on August 18, 1922 in Chiliwack BC Canada to Charles and Marion Dowsett as they immigrated from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. Raised in Tacoma, WA, Joe graduated from Stadium high school in 1941. Following graduation Joe attempted to join the Navy only to find that he was not an American citizen. After lots of paperwork, and a bit of help from draft board member Mr. Henry Foss, Joe signed a waiver which allowed the USA to draft him into service. He was given his choice of service branch within the Army. He chose Airborne and served as a T/4 with the 101st & 17th Airborne, Battery D 463rd Field Artillery Battalion in Bastogne during the Battle of the Bulge. He was awarded the Purple Heart and the Belgium Fourragere.
Back home in 1945 Joe worked as a High steel painter, helping to build the 2nd Narrows bridge and stayed on as maintenance for 13 years. Leaving state employment Joe worked out of Painters Local 64 painting the Space Needle twice, involved in the first load-out buildings for the Alaskan Pipeline, built the equipment and was the first to paint the Narrows Transmission lines. Leaving the painting trade in the early 80's Joe partnered with his son-in-law Rollie in Westpac Marine Services where he once again put his ability to build any equipment needed to the test. The business thrived and for several years and had three generations working together. Joe enjoyed the outdoors, from sailing to power, fishing, motorcycles, camping, hunting trips to Northern Canada for Moose or deer/elk in the Little Naches area. He maintained friends in every venue.
Life threw Joe many curves but he always approached them head-on. He was well read, would recite poetry both formal and bawdy, was gracious with his time and never missed a teaching moment! He was an artist in his own right - able to build or make anything that Helen could draw. From the house they lived in, to a steel Blue Heron sculpture their home and five acres was filled with his handiwork.
Joe is survived by Helen, his wife of 68 years, son, Carl Dowsett, daughter, Karen (Rollie) Herman, Granddaughter, Elyssa(Justin) Schuessler and Great Grandson B. Joey
We will all miss your two armed hugs - no pats- just warmth and strength.
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