Ronnie McDowell's Obituary
Ronald L. “Ronnie” McDowell, 84, of Vandalia, IL, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at SBL Fayette County Hospital Long Term Care.
Per Ronnie’s wishes, cremation rites will be accorded. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM, Monday, December 01, 2025 at Northside Christian Church, Vandalia with Pastor Dennis Warner officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:00-11:00 AM, Monday, December 01, 2025, at the church. Interment will take place in Fairlawn Cemetery, Vandalia, at a later date. In lieu of flowers and gifts, memorials may be made to the family. Online condolences can be expressed at https://www.hohltandfilefh.com.
Born on January 18, 1941, in Vandalia, IL, Ronald Lee McDowell was the beloved son of Glenn Rudolph “Pat” McDowell and Julia Francis (Bennett) McDowell. On July 30, 1960, he married his soulmate, Janet Kay Cooper, at Woburn Baptist Church. Together, they shared 63 wonderful years of marriage and raised three children. Janet preceded him in passing on November 18, 2023.
Throughout his life, Ronnie dedicated himself to his career in quality control at Crane Packing, retiring after an impressive 42 years of service. He was known for his kind heart and gentle spirit, yet he also had a playful, mischievous side and delighted in sharing laughter with others. Ronnie found joy in the outdoors—whether mowing, gardening, or hunting deer and squirrels—and treasured the times spent hunting with his children and grandchildren. Remarkably active and fit, he maintained a daily exercise routine well into his 80s. Ronnie found great joy in music, often gathering with family and friends to listen and create lasting memories.
He will be forever remembered by his son, Todd McDowell and wife Christi of Vandalia; daughter, Kimberly Frederick and husband Bill of Washington, MO; grandchildren, Lyndsay Doehring & husband Billy, Adam Shafer, Tessa Gaffner & husband Nathan, Gage McDowell, and Jake McDowell; great-grandchildren, Macy, Jaida, Aleigh, Zayden, Kynlea, Kaiden, Landen, Dawsyn, Lucas, Amelia, Liam and Waylen; and great-great-grandchildren, Dominic and Roamy.
Ronnie was preceded in death by his parents; wife; and daughter, Jana Shafer.
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