Richard “Rich” A. McDowell

Richard “Rich” A. McDowell, 80, a Cape Coral, FL resident since 2004, formerly of Cedar Brook, NJ passed away on October 24, 2023, at Hope Hospice in Cape Coral.

Born in 1943 in Philadelphia, Rich grew up in Pennsylvania and NJ and resided in South Jersey. He was the dear son of the late Robert and Gladys McDowell.

Rich had a sense of adventure in his youth, serving in the Army at age 19 as a paratrooper. He liked riding his motorcycle, snow skiing, boating, and traveling to the Poconos, Florida, St. Thomas, and Ireland.

Self-taught and knowledgeable about how to fix anything mechanical from cars to appliances, or doing projects at home, he was happy to help people when they needed it. Rich had a quiet sense of humor that people missed if they weren’t paying attention. He was a master of practical advice that everyone appreciated.  

A tractor trailer driver for 25+ years, he was a long-time member of the Teamsters Union and made lifelong friends on the road.

In recent years, Rich enjoyed retirement by spending time with his family, going out to dinner at his favorite restaurants where he knew the waitresses and considered them friends, going to Bible Study and keeping up with the latest technical gadgets that he loved.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Florence “Floss” McDowell (nee Joyce); two children, Marlene and her husband John Smith; Gary and his wife Dana Chaika; three grandchildren, Liam and Mia Chaika, and Sean Smith.

More than anything, Rich loved his wife, children, and grandchildren. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends. Those who loved him will love him forever and cherish their memories until they meet again.  

His favorite quote from the Bible was: Jesus said, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6)

A celebration of life will be held later by his family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Richard McDowell’s name are suggested to Hope Hospice at www.hopehcs.org a nonprofit whose caring nurses and staff help families every day.   

Mullins Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Cape Coral, is entrusted with final care.