Richard "Dickie" P. Dowdle, age 70, of Portage, passed away Sunday, December 11, 2016. He was born on February 12, 1946 to the late Richard and Lucille (nee West) Dowdle. He was a member of the US Navy. Richard retired from EJ and E Railroad. Richard enjoyed fishing, camping and hunting in his free time. Most of all, he cherished the time he got to spend with his family. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandfather.

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Joan Dowdle; sons, Richard (Diane) Dowdle of Cape Coral, FL; Kenneth (Misty) Dowdle of Argus, IN, Steven Dowdle; daughters, Mary (Peter) Rivera of Portage, Jennifer (Craig Diaz) Dowdle of Hobart, Julie Canty of Hobart; 12 grandchildren; and his dog, Brutus.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and one brother, Kevin Dowdle.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, in Richard's honor, to The Special Olympics of Porter County, 980 Portage Ave.
Porter, IN 46304. A special thank you is extended to the nurses at VNA Hospice in Valparaiso.

A memorial service for Richard will be held Sunday, December 18, 2016 at 4:00 pm at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave. Portage, IN 46368 with Pastor Jeremiah Byers officiating. Cremation will follow. Memorial Visitation will take place just prior to the service from 3:00-4:00 at the funeral home. For more information, please call 219-762-3013. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.