Craig Michael McDowell

Craig Michael McDowell, 65, of Rossville, Kansas, passed away on January 29, 2025 surrounded by his loved ones after a long battle with cancer.

 He was born on March 5, 1959 to E.L. (Mac) and Judy Ann McDowell (Phillips) in Topeka, Kansas. Growing up, Craig went to Topeka High School. During his senior year he was involved in Vocational Industrial Club of America. In his spare time as a young adult he enjoyed working on his ’69 Nova and his ’72 Cutlass. He graduated in 1977 and joined the work force where he eventually went on to become a truck driver. He drove for several companies including American Freight, Frito Lay, and ABF. He retired from Capital Concrete Products in 2024. 

Around 1979-1980, he met Julia Ann Grochowsky while working at a local grocery store. It was in 2005 that Craig and Julie reconnected through a mutual friend and started dating. Julie moved to Rossville shortly after and joined Craig and three children.

On December 2, 2006 he married Julie, in Tecumseh. Craig and Julie loved to go on motorcycle rides, vacations and watching movies. Together as a family, some of their favorite thing to do was having cookouts and just spending time together outside on the patio. 

Craig was a member of International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 696. He previously was a volunteer member of the Shawnee County Fire District #3.

When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed riding his motorcycle with friends, spending time with his family and friends, and watching western movies. 

Craig will be most remembered for his humor, his willingness to help those around him and his heart warming smile. Craig was an amazing husband, father and grandfather. 

Craig is survived by his loving wife, Julie McDowell, daughters, Madison (Wes) Chiles, and Caitlin (Bobby) Santacroce, as well as a son, Tate McDowell, brother, Kevin (Annie) McDowell, and grandchildren, Westley Chiles, Destiny Santacroce, Antonio Santacroce, Mariano Santacroce, Louis Santacroce, Arthur Santacroce, and his favorite Grand-dog , J.B. McDowell. He was preceded in death by his Father, E.L. (Mac)and Judy McDowell (Phillips). 

A memorial visitation to honor Craig’s life will be held on Friday, February 7, 2025 at 10:00 am at Penwell-Gabel Cremations, Funerals & Receptions in Topeka, Kansas. Memorial services will follow beginning at 11:00am with pastor Donna Gilchrist officiating. Private inurnment will take place at Memorial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Midland Hospice or the Wounded Warrior Project.