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Robert Dowe Obituary
1939 - 2017
CHINA - Robert C. Dowe passed away peacefully on Feb. 23, 2017, following a courageous battle with brain cancer. He was born on Dec. 22, 1939, to Edmond and Alice Dowe of China, Maine.
After graduating from Erskine Academy he served in the US Air Force. On August 28, 1960, he married the love of his life, Madeline Bailey. Together the had six children. He operated a garage in South China Village briefly until he took on a new endeavor of a self employed logger. In 1976 they built, owned and operated Dowe's Variety Store until 1996. He was a long time member of the South China Volunteer Fire Department, Dirigo Masonic Lodge # 104 and Boynton Webber American Legion Post 179.
He is predeceased by his parents; three brothers, Richard, Roger and Ronald Dowe, and sister Ruth Hussey; infant child Deborah; and grandson Justin Hatch. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Madeline Bailey Dowe; son Robert C. Dowe II and wife Jennifer, daughter Julie Finley and husband John, daughter Kelley Warren and fiance Jon Thornhill, son Glenn Dowe and partner Jackie Fincher, son Donald Dowe and wife Melissa; and precious family friends Tamara Sheaff and husband Dean; 12 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; his four sisters Marilyn Bragg, Barbara Poulin, Dorothy Burke, and Gloria Pinette; and several nieces and nephews.
Our family would like to thank all who visited and supported our family during this most difficult time. Special Thanks to his doctors at Maine General and Hospice.
A celebration of life will be held at the South China Community Church on Tuesday, Feb. 28 at 10:00 a.m. followed by refreshments at the Boynton Webber American Legion Post 179.
Arrangements are under the care of Staples Funeral Home 53 Brunswick Ave Gardiner
In lieu of flowers,
donations can be made to:
South China Volunteer
Fire Department
PO Box 325
China, ME 04358 or:
The Boynton Webber American Legion Post 179
PO Box 401
China, ME 04358
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Dowe
Shirley Alley
February 28, 2017
I adored Bob. I enjoyed going to the store and getting a chance to joke around with him.
It has been an honor to be a friend of your family.
Susan White
February 27, 2017
Bob, you were a really special man and will be missed more than you would ever imagine. May your family hold on to all their wonderful memories. Carrol and Susan White
Carolyn Dow
February 26, 2017
To all the Dowe family, I am sorry for your loss. Bob was such a good man and they were both good friends with Susan White at the beauty shop. He will be missed by many in the China area. Rest in peace Bob.
Cliff and Jean Parlin
February 26, 2017
Great memories of Bob and Madeline, seeing them at dances or a car show. Working with Bob getting the mail out at So China P O. He will be missed, but remembered fondly.
Don and Cnrista Pauley
February 25, 2017
Christa and I send deepest condolences to the family of Bob. A wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend to all who knew him. We all will miss his presence but give thanks that he was part of our lives. Rest well.
Ethel Ring Turcotte
February 25, 2017
Our Deepest Sympathy is sent to the Dowe Family. Our Prayers, Thoughts and Hearts are with you today and always.
Ethel Ring Turcotte and Family
tom barber
February 25, 2017
Madeline and family,
Our sincerest condolences for you and your family for your loss of Bobby. He was a helluva man who inspired many and will be missed by all that knew him.
RIP Bobby
Tom Rita and Thad Barber
Manell Mitchell
February 24, 2017
My condolences to the Dowell family. I would like to leave this with you Psalms 90:10.
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