Edgar Joe McDowell

1935 - 2009

Edgar Joe McDowell passed away peacefully at home on December 18, 2009, with his wife Jill by his side.

Ed McDowell was born June 10, 1935, in Waitsburg WA. Ed's family came to Ellensburg in 1949, at which time he entered the ninth grade at Ellensburg High school. He met his high school sweetheart and future wife Jill Conner McDowell in 1951. After graduating from high school in 1953, he finished one year of college, and then joined the army in August of 1954. While on leave, Ed and Jill were married on December 23, 1954.

In 1956, Ed was discharged from the Army and went on to complete his master's degree in teaching at CWU. He taught at Morgan Middle school then Ellensburg High School. Ed developed a love for merchandising and marketing in the 9th grade while working for Vail's Grocery. Ed was able to perpetuate his merchandising and marketing enthusiasm in 1966 at EHS by starting the DECA program, which he ran until his retirement in 1989. After retiring from his teaching career of 30 years, Ed spent the next 18 years in the cattle business. Ed was a life-time member of the Ellensburg Rodeo Posse, serving as captain in 1979. Throughout his career he touched many lives.

He is survived by wife Jill McDowell of 55 years, children Kevin (Becky) McDowell, Kirk (Suzanne) McDowell, Kim Thorpe, grandchildren Maddy (Ben) Whitehurst, Morgan and Mason McDowell. Holly Thorpe, Haley (Brayton) DeKoning. One great-grandchild Walker Whitehurst. Brother Donald (Margie) McDowell and nephew Mike McDowell. He was preceded in death by his father Bob and mother Atha, and sister in-law Mary McDowell.

A celebration of Ed's life will be held on Sunday January 3rd at the Kittitas Valley Event Center Teanaway Hall at 2pm. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Hospice, Seattle Children's Hospital or a charity of your choice.