Donald W. McDowell

PLYMOUTH — Donald W. McDowell, 49, of Plymouth, died on Jan. 13, 2010. He was the husband of the late Gail McDowell. Don was born in Hyannis, and was a student in the Barnstable school system. In 1972, Don's parents, Roscoe and Florence McDowell moved to White River Junction, Vt., where Don completed his high school education. Don received his bachelor's degree from Castleton State College in 1982.

Don returned to Hyannis where he worked at several local restaurants. Don then moved on to his career with Fed Ex where he grew in the organization and his outstanding work ethic and care and concern for his colleagues propelled him to the operations manager position. Don's commitment to the Fed Ex, an eighteen year commitment, left no doubt that he was a true member of the Fed Ex family.

His two sons, James P. McDowell and Ross F. McDowell, survive Don. Survivors also include Don's sister, Constance B. McDowell of Ithaca, N.Y., and his brothers, Reginald R. McDowell of Los Angeles, Calif., and Gerald T. McDowell of Centerville. Many nieces and nephews and cousins will also miss Don.

Don's life revolved around serving his family. His care for Gail as she fought her battle against cancer while providing for James and Ross demonstrated both his compassion as well as his strong will.

It is that compassion and will combined with his sense of humor and wit that will be missed by the people in the neighborhood, at his workplace and by all of the family members that Don leaves.

Visiting hours will be held from 4 to 7 p.m., on Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2010, at Doane, Beal and Ames, 160 Main Street, in Hyannis. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2010, at 11 a.m., at the same location, followed by burial at Mosswood Cemetery in Cotuit.

In lieu of flowers, donations to a 529 college fund established for James and Ross will be greatly appreciated. Donations may be sent to Doane, Beal & Ames, 160 West Main St., Hyannis, MA 02061.

Doane, Beal & Ames

508-775-0684