Well known dairyman of Petaluma, California, passed away peacefully in his home November 10th, 2016, with his wife Carol always by his side. His parents immigrated from Ireland in the 1920's to begin their dairy in west Petaluma where they raised Jim and his two younger siblings Joe McDowell and Bessie McDowell-O'Brien. Jim's first love was the dairy and it was, without a doubt, a love affair that lasted his lifetime. Passionate about the cows, the land, the business, the industry, but especially, the unique community of family farmers that has remained so warm and connected in Petaluma. If he wasn't on the ranch, he was in town and always talking to someone! Involved with Western United Dairyman, Toast Masters, The Golf and Country Club, and a founder of the former Bank of Petaluma. Petaluma was his home, his business, his community, and his family. Petaluma was his "wee bit of Ireland" here on the California coast. We will miss him sitting in Starbucks or calling just to say "Hi!" He celebrated his 80th birthday and 60th wedding anniversary this October surrounded by his family. Jim is survived by his loving and devoted wife Carol, his two sons Pat and Mike, three grandchildren Ryan, Shannan, and Liam; and four great-grandchildren: Elizabeth, Matthew, Benjamin and Jack. He will always be missed, loved, and honored by each of us. Take good care of him for us, Grandma May.
Service to celebrate his life will be held Friday, November 18th at Two Rock Presbyterian Church 7063 Bodega Avenue, at 11am. In lieu of flowers, please consider sending donations for dementia research to The Alzheimer's Association P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011 www.alz.org; or Hospice of Petaluma, 416 Payran Street, Petaluma, CA 94952 www.stjosephhealth.org Memorial Service
Two Rock Presbyterian Church
Friday, November 18, 2016
11:00 AM
7063 Bodega Avenue
Petaluma, CA 94952
Directions