Jacqueline M. Dowling

Jacqueline M. Dowling September 5, 1922 ~ April 2, 2009 Marion – A longtime Indianapolis-Marion, Indiana baseball enthusiast, Jackie Dowling died Thursday in Marion after a brief illness. Jackie Mikels Dowling, 86, was born as Vera Jacqueline Mikels on September 5, 1922 at the farm home at 14th and Maples Streets of her mother Susan Dinius Mikels' pioneer Grant County family. The family of her maternal grandmother, Jennie Smith-James Dinius, came to Indiana in a covered wagon from Missouri, settling first in Roanoke, then Marion. Dubbed in frequent media stories as the "Indianapolis Indians" No. 1 Fan, Jackie was a familiar figure many years at Bush and Victory Fields, where her seat bore a personalized plaque. Interview and her photo were frequently featured in local media, as well as in Ken burns baseball documentary and several books. "Jackie Dowling was indeed a great Indians fan," said Max Schumacher. "She demonstrated it many times every season by long drives from Marion to watch the Indians play. She loved to interact with the players and other fans and even helped on souvenir Sundays. She will be missed." Cal Burleson added: "Jackie Dowling was one of our most loyal fans, dating back to our years at Bush. She always had a smile fore everyone…and provided homemade cookies for the players. Everyone at the Indians will miss her very much." For many years she operated Jackie's Restaurant in Jonesboro and was active in the Democratic and numerous local civic groups. Jackie was married to the late William Dowling, who died in January and is survived by children Leisa (Gary) Decker, Gas City, Kim (Richard) Troutt, Converse, Mikel Dowling, Indianapolis; granddaughter, Shannon (Terry) Young; and great-granddaughters, Kennedie, Spenser, and Kendal Young, Fairmount; sister, Donna Mikels Shea, Indianapolis; nieces and nephews. Visitation is from 2-6 pm on Sunday, April 5, 2009 at Needham-Storey- Wampner Funeral Service, Storey Chapel, 400 E. Main Street, Gas City, Indiana, & viewing from 11:00 am until time of service on Monday. Funeral Services are at 1 pm on Monday, April 6, 2009 at Needham-Storey- Wampner Funeral Service, Storey Chapel, 400 E. Main Street, Gas City, Indiana with Reverend Mick Simpkins officiating. Burial will be in Estates of Serenity, Marion. Memorials may be made to Marion-Grant County Humane Society, PO Box 1029, Marion, IN 46952. Online condolences may be made at www.nswcares.com.