David Dowler Obituary
A true family man, he spent his life making sure his family knew they were loved and cared for. For 46 years he and his beloved wife Judy were each other's rock. He leaves behind many happy memories of family vacations, picnics, and Play Nine games. Throughout his life, Dave saw the United States-from Maine to Washington- as a long haul truck driver. Even when he stopped driving, the call of "The Last American Cowboy" was still there and he wanted to make one last run.
Dave was a friend to everyone, including the homeless. As an avid music lover, if you had your guitar case open on the street, you could expect a few extra bucks and a "good job" as he walked by. Over the past few years Dave had been teaching himself to play guitar and was looking forward to learning drums.
Dave will be remembered for his incredible sense of humor. He always had a joke ready to go, and a laugh that was contagious. In retirement, Dave was able to visit thrift stores across the Eastern United States in search of a good deal, spend time bird watching, and spend time with his much loved grandchildren and family.
Dave leaves behind his wife Judy; his children Laura (Brian) Dowler, Michelle (Steven) Andrus, and Janice Dowler; his grandchildren Jordan, Grace, Summer, Jake, Steve Jr., and Jonah; and his brothers Robert (Paula) Dowler, Dale (Sandy) Dowler, Jr., and Walter (Beth decd.) Willis. He is preceded in death by his mother, Faye; his father, Dale; and his sister Wanda.
Calling hours will be held on Wednesday May 1, from 11-1 at Zaback-Williams-Ducro Funeral Home on Prospect Rd. This will be followed by a memorial service at 1, also at Zaback.
If you knew Dave, you know that the world feels a little less fun without him in it. Think of Dave whenever you see a particularly colorful bird, do something kind in his honor, and if you are able to donate platelets and/or blood please consider doing so.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Judy Dowler
August 30, 2025
Happy birthday. I miss you every day.
Judy Dowler
November 15, 2024
I miss you everyday . It was never goodbye, it was until I see you again
Brenda Colvin
May 6, 2024
Dave was with our mutual friend Bill Corbitt, and had just returned from "picking," with treasures in tow. Dave was truly a lovely person and will be remembered fondly.
How you can show support
Follow
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Sally Lewis
April 30, 2024
I always enjoyed talking with Dave. This picture was a really fun day- even though these guys look like they´re in an ID line up. I wish I could be with everyone tomorrow. You are in my thoughts.
Mike and Diana Cummins
April 30, 2024
I woke up this morning with my mind flooded with a lifetime of memories. Trying to put our memories of Dave into 1 paragraph is hard, because we have so many.My very 1st concert 1973 ( Mott The Hoople and Aerosmith (at John Carroll University) . Dave was a great treasure hunter.He brought Mike and I so many cool gifts from his "Picking Days". In 1972 Mike and Dave hitchhiked from Ohio to California and back. Truly an adventure and bond for the both of them. We are deeply saddened that we are unable to bid farewell to our longtime friend Dave at his service May 1st 2024, and send virtual hugs and much love to Judy ,his daughters and family. With our most deepest sympathy Mike and Diana Cummins
Julie Grandbouche
April 30, 2024
The smile. I can't imagine his face without it, and the laugh. Once you head it, you couldn't forget it.
Missy DeCamillo
April 27, 2024
I met Dave and his family at the Conneaut Church of Christ and one of my earlier memories is about the time he stopped by to say hello to my family while I was at the store. During his visit, Dave´s daughters invited my daughter Lindsey Horwood, now Hayes to their house to play for the day. When I returned home I learned, to my surprise that the girls made the trip while in the back of Dave´s truck (it had a cap). Not my idea of safety. Lindsey later shared that she got to sit in the folding lawn chair during the drive and her enthusiasm told me she was honored by the privilege! Because Dave was such a kind person I never had the heart to tell him how unsafe I thought it was. Dave´s only goal was to make it possible for our girls to play and hang out together!
Lori Punkar
April 27, 2024
My husband Dave and I will fondly remember our visit to Dave and Judy´s condo in Cape Canaveral this past January. Even though it was cool and a bit rainy while we were there, it didn´t stop us from walking on the beach every day, having lunch in Cocoa Beach and a drink on the pier, thrift store shopping and the many games we played at the kitchen table. Our stay was extended by a day to watch the space rocket lift off at Cape Canaveral. Since then my husband Dave and I have talked about how much fun we had getting to know Dave and Judy better after having spent 3 days together, how much we have in common with them even knowing how to play the game Play Nine that we enjoyed playing daily. I will always remember his gentle demeanor, his sense of humor and infectious laugh and his love for Judy that was evident. We are so thankful for that time together and the fond memories we made.
Carl Feather
April 27, 2024
Always had a kind word and treated people well. A true follower of Christ. The loss to our world is profound. Good men like him are so rare.
Tom Baughman
April 26, 2024
Dave was a few years older than me so I didnt know Dave well but I certainly knew who he was. I live on Lattimer and I remember his Fantastic Zoo over on Blair. I use to love going there as a kid and he always treated us great. Dave and his family are in my prayers.
Penny Vaughn
April 26, 2024
Dear Judy and Family,
Ed and I are heartbroken. We had many wonderful times with you, Dave and the girls. Fondly and with great joy all the times you came down to FL and stayed with us and that especially hilarious New Years forever etched in our memories. We love you and are here for you.
Sandy Vincent
April 26, 2024
My parents came home one night after hanging with Dave and Judy. They said that Dave had them laughing so hard. He told them to stop on the side of the road to check out someone´s "treasures" that were left on the curb. He sure did know all the good places to get the deals. I will remember him for his jokes and for his laugh, one of the best. God gained an Angel for sure. Whenever Dave was around, you knew you were in for a good time and lots of laughs.
Showing 1 - 14 of 14 results
500 Prospect Road, Ashtabula, OH 44004
Make a Donation
in David Dowler's name
How to support David's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor David Dowler's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
