Robert Ernest "Bob" McDowell

1951 - 2024

Robert Ernest "Bob" McDowell, 73, of Elizabethtown, passed away Saturday, Aug. 3, 2024, at his home.

He was born Feb. 19, 1951, in Louisville to his parents, Robert Thomas and Clara Gladys Artman McDowell.

It's impossible to summarize the existence of a man who was so abundantly full of life, someone who had his hands in so many things. He loved fishing, UofL sports, Star Trek, music, reading and was a yard work enthusiast. But no matter how all-in he was on whatever work project or hobby, nothing compared to his deep, deep love for his family. He was not just a dad, husband, Papaw, brother, uncle, or father-in-law, he was a cheerleader, caretaker, protector, leader and best friend. He was everything. Being fiercely loved by him was such a gift to experience and to witness. He adored his wife, Carol, the love-of-his-life, best friend and bride of 34 years. He was his four children's hero. He was captivated with his nine grandchildren and built an irreplaceable bond with his sons-in-laws and daughter-in-law. He showed this love in so many ways, so many "I love you," so many laughs, so many tight hugs and kisses and so much generosity. He will be greatly missed.

He dedicated his life to his business, McDowell, Stromatt & Associates, which he founded in 1992. His work there was his life's professional passion. The vitality of his spirit and tireless work ethic are reflected in the countless number of people he helped along the way. Now, this legacy of the business will remain in the family that have worked with him. He was very active in NADR, National Association of Disability Representatives. He served on the Association's Board for several years, including stints as treasurer, vice-president and president. He was the recipient of the Al Gonzalez Distinguished Service Award for being Member of the Decade. Bob valued his friends and colleagues in this association very much.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a nephew, Jason Triplett.

Survivors include his wife, Carol Stromatt; children, Heather Sharpensteen (Robbie), Kirsten Brown (Tim) and Ian McDowell (Paula Henao) and their mother, Melanie McDowell, and Caitlyn Jewell (Chuck); a brother, Kevin McDowell (Patty); two sisters, Cathy Nuss (Lisa Fowler) and Donna Cocke (Eddie); nine grandchildren, Lauryn Stephens (Patrick), Olivia Sharpensteen, Addison Sharpensteen, Lochlan Brown, Irelann Brown, Ronan Brown, Charlotte Jewell, Vivian Jewell and Lydia Jewell; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

A celebration of life is at 1 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 18, at Trowbridge Funeral Home in Elizabethtown. Visitation begins at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Inurnment will be in Elizabethtown Memorial Gardens.

To express an online condolence and to light a candle of remembrance, please visit trowbridgefh.com.

Trowbridge Funeral Home in Elizabethtown has been entrusted with the arrangements.