James Dowd

1934 - 2025

James Dowd
11/15/1934 - 09/08/2025
Jim Dowd, beloved husband, father, and community servant, passed away after a life filled with dedication, service, and love. Born on November 15, 1934, in San Francisco, Jim was the first son of the Late Mary and Late James Dowd. Brother to the Late John L, Late Philip, & Late Charles J. Dowd. He grew up in the Noe Valley neighborhood of San Francisco, where he attended St. Philip's School and later St. Ignatius High School.
Jim's early years were marked by his faith and commitment, serving as an altar boy at St. Philip's and St. Ignatius, class of 1952. After briefly attending City College of San Francisco, he began his career working for Hamm's Brewing Co. before entering the carpet and linoleum installation trade.
In 1960, Jim married the love of his life, the late Frances A, and together they built a family filled with love and joy. Their first child, Christy was born in June 1962, followed by Mike in March 1964, Jerry in August 1965, and Joe on July 4, 1971.
Jim's career took a significant turn when he joined the California Highway Patrol Academy on January 19, 1964. After graduating in May of that year, he was assigned to the San Francisco Area, where he served with distinction. In 1965, Jim trained as a motorcycle officer, a role he excelled in until his retirement. By the time he retired on December 30, 1993, Jim held the honor of being the most senior motorcycle rider in the California Highway Patrol, not only in San Francisco but across the state.
Beyond his professional achievements, Jim was deeply involved in his community. In the early 1980s, he discovered the Apostleship of the Sea and worked closely with Father Heaney and his crew. He was also an active member of the Footprinters and contributed to the San Francisco Firefighters Toy Detail, bringing joy to countless children during the holiday season.
After nearly 29 years of dedicated service, Jim retired, leaving behind a legacy of commitment and excellence. His license plate, "32 MARY 1," was a testament to his pride in his work and his family.
Jim Dowd will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his faith, his community, and his career. He leaves behind his children Christy Leong (Mike), Mike (Vickie), Jerry (Julie Freudenstein), and Joe (Jean Sousa), grandchildren Delaney, Brandon and Cynthia and countless others whose lives he touched. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
A vigil and rosary will be held on Thursday, October 9th at Duggan's Serra Mortuary from 4-8pm with the rosary at 6:30pm and Friday, October 10, at 10am, the funeral mass at Holy Angels Church to celebrate James' life; burial at Holy Cross at 12 noon.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to San Francisco Fire Department Toy Program in Jim's honor.
Rest in peace, Jim. You will be deeply missed.