Earl W. McDowell, age 69, of Hobart passed away Wednesday February 24, 2016 at the St Mary Medical Center in Hobart. Earl was born October 31, 1946 in Paintsville, KY to the late Earl W. and Ruebena (Picklesimer) McDowell, Sr. He retired from the Frito-Lay, Corporation as a Route Salesman. Earl proudly served his country in the US Marine Corps during the Vietnam War where he received a Purple Heart and a Combat V for Valor in Combat. He also served in the Indiana National Guard. Earl was a member of the Marine Corps League, Howling Mad Division. He was a Past Indiana VFW 1st District Commander and Past Post Commander and member of Hobart VFW Post #5365. Earl is a member of American Legion Post #260 in Portage. He was a member of the NIBA Hall of Fame for bowling.

Earl is survived by his loving wife Kimberly; one son Steven McDowell of DeMotte; four grandchildren Michael, Amber, Megan and David, Jr.; and three great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sons David and Adam McDowell; and one daughter Heather McDowell.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 Monday February 29, 2016 at Rees Funeral Home, 600 W. Old Ridge Road, Hobart, Indiana 46342 with Pastor Bob Burton officiating. Burial will follow in Graceland Cemetery in Valparaiso. Visitation will be Sunday from 3-7 pm, with a 6 pm American Legion Memorial Service and a 6:30 pm VFW Memorial Service.