Robert James McDowell

He enjoyed spending time on crafts, especially woodworking. Robert was athletic and an avid golfer, loved the game, and spent time as a Teaching Pro for many years. He was an Illinois State Tumbling Champion in his prime. Robert enjoyed writing and reciting poetry. He had a green thumb and enjoyed working with flowers and gardening, cooking, hunting, fishing and was a true Mr. Fix It of anything needing it. He adored his time attending any activities, including sports for all of his family. He was always there for any of us!

In addition to his parents, Joseph and Margaret McDowell, he was preceded in death by his High School sweetheart of 53 years, Catherine Laffredi, and his sister, Geraldine Pockington.

Left to cherish his memory are his children, Scott (wife Susan), Cathy, and Jim; brother, Joe “Bunky” McDowell; grandchildren, Emily, Kelly, Brock (wife Rachel), Kayla, Jimbo, Grace, Hannah, and Van; great-grandchildren, Zoe, Zaiya, Liam, and Hazel.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, March 16, 2024 at Frank Vogler & Sons, 2849 Middlebrook Drive, Clemmons, at 1:30PM with Pastor Chuck Smith officiating. Visitation will be held at the funeral home 30 minutes prior to the service. Final placement will occur immediately after the service at Westlawn Gardens of Memory in Clemmons.

In lieu of flowers, Robert’s family has requested donations be made directly to Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home or Trellis Supportive Care, 101 Hospice Lane, Winston-Salem, NC 27103.