John Dowd

John Lawrence Dowd, Sr.

It is with deep love and sadness that we announce the passing of John Lawrence Dowd, Sr., who went home to the Lord on August 15, 2025, at the age of 85. He passed peacefully at his home in Roseburg, Oregon, surrounded by the love of his family.

John is survived by his devoted wife of 30 years, Mary Happnie Dowd, who was his steadfast companion and caregiver throughout his final years. He also leaves behind his loving stepdaughter Michelle Heryford (G.R.), and step-grandsons Gage Heryford (Sarah), Noah Heryford (Natalie), and Chase Heryford, all of whom cherished the time they shared with him. He is also survived by his brother James Dowd.

John’s greatest joy came from his large and loving family. From his 32-year marriage to Patricia Regan, he is survived by nine of their ten children: Denise Dowd, John Dowd Jr. (Angela), Timothy Dowd (Emma), Brian Dowd, Patrick Dowd, Stephanie Andrews (Jason), Theresa Dowd (Tracy Barreau), Daniel Dowd, and Matthew Dowd. He was the proud grandfather of Billy Parker Jr. (Shayna Stillwell), Ryan Tanner, Brahm Andrews, Aramis Andrews, Sophie Dowd, Evelyn Dowd, Aiden Dowd, Katia Dowd, Danica Dowd, James Dowd, and Violet Dowd, and the great-grandfather of Wyatt and Jacob Tanner (Kayla Lewis, mother) and Hunter Ganey. John’s circle of love extended to many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends who will miss him deeply.

He was preceded in death by his first wife Patricia, his son Thomas Dowd, and his brothers Charles and Philip Dowd.

John lived a life of service, faith, and devotion to his country. He graduated from St. Philip’s School and Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory before answering the call to serve. He began his career as a California Highway Patrolman in 1966 and retired in 1983. John also proudly served in the Army Reserve from 1958 to 1964, and in 1973 he enlisted in the United States Coast Guard Reserve, where he served with honor until his retirement in 1999 as Senior Chief, with over 32 years of service. His commitment included active duty during Hurricane Andrew and the Exxon Valdez cleanup in Alaska. He was a proud member of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars, and his patriotism was evident to all who knew him—he could often be found wearing his favorite shirts decorated with the American flag.

John’s Catholic faith was the cornerstone of his life. A devoted son of Our Blessed Mother, he was rarely seen without a rosary and proudly wore shirts bearing her image. He was an active member of the Knights of Columbus, 4th Degree, and lived his faith with humility and devotion.

To his family and friends, John will forever be remembered as a storyteller with a contagious laugh, a man with a mischievous sense of humor, and a heart that was always ready to help others. His “special” birthday song became a treasured tradition that his loved ones will never forget.

Above all, John was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His legacy of faith, service, humor, and love will live on in the countless lives he touched.

A Funeral Mass celebrating John’s life will be held on Wednesday, Sept 3, 2025 at 12:10 pm. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 800 W Stanton St., Roseburg, Oregon. Rosary will precede Mass at 11:30 am. Interment will be at the VA cemetery following Mass. Reception will follow at Wilson’s Chapel of the Roses, 965 West Harvard Ave, Roseburg, OR.

All who knew and loved him are invited to gather in remembrance and thanksgiving for his remarkable life.