Christopher Thomas Dowell

Christopher Thomas Dowell, of Woodbine, Maryland, transitioned peacefully on October 23, 2025 at the age of 56 surrounded by loving arms. Born April 28, 1969, at St. Agnes Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland, he was the beloved son of Katherine A. Dowell (née Hohenstein) and the late George A. Dowell.

Chris was the devoted father of Christopher T. Dowell, Jr., Dylan Dowell, and Ryan Howell and the loving companion of 22 years to Valerie Geiger. He shared a special bond with Valerie’s daughters, Amanda Shelton, Lacey Eshmont (Ed) and Rachel Getson, who loved him dearly. He was the cherished brother of Frederick Dowell, Andrew (Lanny) Dowell, and Elizabeth Dowell, and is also survived by his friend and ex-wife, Kimberly Dowell, her daughter Jessica Davis, granddaughter Kiara Avery, and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and countless friends.

From the time he was little, Chris had a natural curiosity about how things worked—he loved taking things apart and (most of the time) putting them back together again. That curiosity led him to become an incredibly skilled mechanic. Over the years, he worked at an Exxon Station and Bill’s Towing, earning a reputation for being able to fix just about anything and for never turning down a challenge.

Chris was happiest when he was tinkering in the garage, picking crabs with family and friends, watching Hallmark movies, or spending time with his beloved dogs. He had a sharp wit, a big laugh, and a colorful sailor’s mouth that could make anyone smile and definitely get an eye turn. His favorite holiday was the Fourth of July, and every year he looked forward to the Longfellow Parade—never missing the chance to celebrate with old Columbia friends. One of his greatest pleasures was firing up the grill to smoke ribs and brisket – a skill he mastered and shared generously with everyone lucky enough to pull up a chair.

He will be remembered for his sense of humor, his generosity, and the way he brought warmth and laughter to everyone around him. Though his hands were often covered in grease, his heart was always full of love.

He will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his big heart, quick smile, and the way he could make anyone laugh—even on the toughest of days.

Family and friends are invited to a Memorial Gathering at Gary L. Kaufman Funeral Home at Meadowridge Memorial Park, Inc. 7250 Washington Blvd. Elkridge, Maryland 21075 (Exit 6 South off Route 100) on Saturday, November 29, 2025 from 3:00 – 5:00pm at which time a Memorial Celebration of Life Service will begin. Inurnment private.