Catherine Dowd Obituary
Catherine Jean (Burke) Dowd
March 13, 1936 — May 20, 2025
Catherine (known as Kay) Dowd was born in Seattle to Magdalene Rose (Eldredge) Burke and Eugene M. Burke. She attended Holy Names Academy, and after graduation, attended the University of Washington where she was a member of the Alpha Delta Pi Sorority and earned her BA in Interior Design. During her time at the UW, she met her future husband, Thomas (Tom) John Dowd Jr. to whom she was married for 55 years until his death in 2013. After a three-year stint on the East Coast during Tom's military service, the pair returned to Seattle where they stayed for the remainder of their lives. The two enjoyed travel around the world, often revolving around Tom's work with international ports.
In addition to being a wonderful mother and grandmother, Kay was active in numerous groups throughout her adult life, including the Junior League of Seattle, Alpha Delta Pi Alumni, UW Alumnae, PTA, Ryther League and St Bridget Church.
Kay passed away of natural causes after complications following recent health issues. She is survived by children Mike (Darcelle Johs), Patty (Uli Haller) and Tim (Amy Tonnessen) and grandchildren Avery, Eric, Iris and Peter.
Along with her volunteer work and spending time with family, Kay enjoyed reading, travel, walking and spending time at the family's house on Whidbey Island. She was known for her kindness, and will be missed by all who knew her.
A private family burial is planned for Wednesday, the 4th of June at Calvary Cemetery.
Donations in her honor can be made to the Catherine Burke Dowd Named Endowed Scholarship at Holy Names Academy
( https://www.holynames-sea.org/support-hna/give-online/)
Please sign the Guestbook at: www.emmickfunerals.com/obituaries/Catherine-Dowd
Arrangements Entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home - Seattle
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
3243 California Avenue Southwest, Seattle, WA 98116
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