Joseph "Joe" Frank Dowds

Joseph "Joe" Dowds of Eaton, OH., fought a hard battle with an aggressive lung cancer. He passed away in his home, at the age of 79, on Friday, March 17, 2023 peacefully in the arms of his loving wife, while in Hospice Care. 

Joe was born to Wayne and Jessie (Campbell) Dowds on February 11,1944 in Effingham, IL. He is preceded in death by his parents, son; Daniel Shaffer, and two brothers; Robert and James Dowds. 

Joe will be lovingly remembered by his loving wife of 26 years; Vanessa Dowds, children; Amy (Kirk) Dowds, Mike (Kristi) Shaffer, Shaun Shaffer, Jenny (Gregg) Goldy, brother; Larry (Charlotte) Dowds, numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, friends, and 2 fur babies.

Joe was a graduate of Altamont High School, IL in 1962, where he was a star athlete. He excelled in baseball, 50's music, and dancing. While in high school, he won the title of "Twist King". After graduation, he enlisted in the Army and received an honorable discharge in 1966.

Joe retired from Timken in 2009, after 15 years of service. After retirement, he enjoyed working and volunteering at the YMCA, where he was recognized as the YMCA Volunteer of the Year in 2019. He enjoyed so many things in life, ranging from shooting pool, throwing darts, playing cornhole and horseshoes, pickleball, baseball, playing cards, fishing, bowling, and mushroom hunting.  He loved to listen to old school country music and most of all spending time with his family and friends.

Joe had a crooked smile, contagious laugh, and touched so many lives... he never knew a stranger. Above all he adored his grandchildren and great grandchildren, he will be missed by those who knew him.

Due to unforeseen construction circumstances the memorial services for Joe could not be held at Preble Memory Garden's Funeral Center. Please join us for a memorial service to celebrate the life of Joseph (Joe) Dowds. We will gather together on April 1, 2023 from 2-4pm at the American Legion, located at 1000 US 35 Eaton, Ohio. If you would like to donate any food for the private family dinner, you may drop it off at 4:30pm.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: "Hospice of Dayton" or "American Lung Association". For Condolences, please visit: 

http://www.rlcfc.com

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