Donald Leslie McDowell

Donald Leslie McDowell of rural, Watts Okla., went to be with his Lord on August 18th, 2019. Don was born in Oswego, Kan., on July 25, 1941 to Leslie Sylvester McDowell, and Lena (Gaston) McDowell. He graduated from Labette County High School in 1959, and later attended Barber College in McPherson, Kan. Don served in the Army Reserve. He was a barber in Girard, Kan., where he made many friends and acquaintances. While working in Girard he met his former LCHS classmate, Jerry Ann Mozingo. She and Don were married on May 1st, 1966 and lived in Girard. They moved their growing family to a dairy farm near Oswego, Kan., until relocating a few years later to another farm east of Altamont,Kan.. They operated a dairy, and raised strawberries, much to the delight of the Loncarich girls, and the Wertz kids who all would help pick berries. In December of 1978 they moved to Siloam Springs, Ark., where they owned and operated Sugar & Spice donuts and Pepper Bellies restaurant for several years. After selling the business, Jerry and Don both worked for Franklin Electric company in Siloam Springs until they retired. This began their many years of traveling in their various Air Stream trailers. Don loved his family dearly. He was proceeded in death by the love of his life Jerry, his parents, and two sisters, Wanda and Patsy. He is survived by five children. Four sons, Greg, Jay, Adam and wife Cheryl, Todd McDowell, daughter Amy Brown and husband Cliff. 11 grandchildren, Meghan, Mikel, Colby, Shanna, Chase, Les, Samantha, Ashley, Rachel, Ryan and Hope. 10 great-grandchildren, and two brothers Norman and Gary McDowell. Don enjoyed riding motorcycles and shared with all his kids the thrill of riding. He was an active member of Gum Springs Baptist Church in Siloam Springs, and enjoyed the many fellowship activities. On his final day here on earth, he was able to do two of his favorite things, ride his motorcycle, and attend Church. A memorial service for Don will be held September 7th, at 11 a.m. at Gum Springs Baptist Church in Siloam Springs, Ark. Arrangements by Benton County Memorial Park Funeral Home, Rogers, Ark.