Harry Dowd
June 02, 1933 - August 29, 2015
Obituary
DOWD, Harry J. of Saginaw, Michigan passed away on Saturday, August 29, 2015 at his home. He was 82 years old. Harry Joseph Dowd, Jr. was born on June 2, 1933 in Saginaw, Michigan to the late Harry J. Sr. and Ruth Marie (Miller) Dowd. He married Shirley Ann Christensen at St. Andrew Catholic Church in Saginaw; she preceded him in death on June 14, 2013. Harry graduated from St. Andrews Catholic High School. He would then serve the United States Army as an Infantryman. Upon his honorable discharge, he earned his Master's Degree in Education and worked as an Elementary School Teacher and a Special Education Teacher. While teaching, he and Shirley owned the Black River Inn in Bessemer, MI and they were also part of the Gogebic County Search and Rescue. In his spare time, he loved to sail, camping, and traveling—Harry and Shirley were very proud that they had visited every national park in the states. He loved people and people loved him back. More than anything, he loved his family. Surviving are one son and four daughters: Kevin Dowd, Debrah Willey, Theresa (Robert) Dowd-Gross, Mary (Joseph) Merz, and Colleen (Greg) Sheeley; five grandchildren, Opal (Mathew) Guille, Joe (Penny) Merz, Victoria Merz, Danielle Machesky, and Devin Gross; two great-granddaughters, McKenzie Merz and Natalie Merz; one sister, Ruth Ann Butler; two brothers-in-law: Jerry (Barb) Christensen and Larry (Barb) Christensen; and many other family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife of 59 years, Shirley; sister, Kathleen Haley; and son-in-law, Dan Willey. MEMORIAL: Funeral Liturgy will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, September 4, 2015 at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 5376 State St., Saginaw 48603. Rev. Fr. Richard Bokinskie will officiate. Military Honors will directly follow Mass and take place under the auspices of the VFW Post #1859 and the United States Army. Rite of Committal will follow in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Cremation has taken place. VISITATION: Friends are welcome to visit at Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. (off State) on Thursday, September 3, 2015 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and at the church on Friday, from 9:30 a.m. until the time of Mass at 10:30 a.m. MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the American Stroke Association. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home, church, or through www.deislerfuneralhome.com.
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Memories
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Linda Tilley
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I am so sad to read of Harry's passing. Both Harry and Shirley were such dear people, and we had many good times with them at horse events. Harry's smile and the twinkle in his eyes will be fondly remembered. Hugs to all of the family.
Linda (Strand) and Michael Tilley
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Lou Furlo
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Lou Furlo lit a candle in memory of Harry J. Dowd
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Barbara Malmberg
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Only happy thoughts when I think of Harry. He loved the students, and he showed it every day at school. I was fortunate to get to know Harry at the Washington School. My thoughts and prayers are with you and Harry. My sympathy to the entire Dowd family. Barbara Malmberg
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Shelley Suckow
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Harry was one of a kind! He will be missed by all of the "kids" that spent so much time at his home! (or should I say in his barn)
Love to you all
Shelley (Lehto) Suckow
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Anonymous
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Sincerest Sorrow - Blue and White was purchased for the family of Harry J. Dowd.
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Joanne E Pihlaja
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So sorry to hear about Harry's passing. He was one of the most creative teachers in the Washington School. He was a great inspiration to my daughter's writing. Michelle had him for two years and one of the best things I remember was how her ability to write creatively greatly grew. Bless him and all teachers that inspire our children to think for themselves.