John L. "Jack" Dowell

John L. "Jack" Dowell, age 88, passed away on Tuesday, November 22, 2022 in Baystate Wing Memorial Hospital in Palmer.  Jack was born in the Gilbertville section of Hardwick on May 28, 1934, son of the late Lionel H. Dowell and Pauline A. (Beaudin) Dowell.  He was raised and educated in Gilbertville, and a graduate of the former Hardwick High School.  Jack enlisted in the United States Navy on February 12, 1952.  He served honorably for 3 years and was last assigned to the USS Ernest G. Small, and was discharged on March 15, 1955 with the rank of Gunner's Mate Missile second class (E-5).  Jack was awarded the United States Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal and the China Service Medal.  He was employed for many years as a construction superintendent for Bruschi Brothers of Ludlow.  Jack was a proud member of the Eden Lodge AF&AM of Ware, and the Melha Shriners of Springfield. In 1957 Jack entered into Holy Matrimony with Dolores (Swiatek), for 65 years they were happily wed.  Jack loved his faith, his family, and his community.  He will be deeply missed by all that knew and loved him. Jack and Dolores have called Ware their home since 1965.  Jack leaves behind his beloved wife of 65 years, Dolores (Swiatek) Dowell, his loving daughters; Mary Williams, Priscillia St. Onge and Pauline Dowell, his loving grandchildren:  Benjamin Williams, Steven Williams, Ryan St. Onge, Melissa Devillier, Luke Dowell and Hannah Dowell, his great-grandchildren; Helena St. Onge, Jack St. Onge and Ethan Devillier.  Jack also leaves behind his siblings; Roderick Dowell, Christine Carballeira, Chloe Moriarty and Kim Rothman, his best friends John and Karen Burns and his honorary family, Brian and Jolene St. Onge, Brett and Jocelyn St. Onge, many nieces and nephews.  Sadly, Jack was pre-deceased by his loving son, John L. Dowell, Jr. in 2006 and his brother, William "Bill" Dowell.  A Committal Service will take place on Friday, May 26, 2023 at 3 PM in the Massachusetts Veterans' Memorial Cemetery in Agawam.  There are no calling hours.  Cebula Funeral Home of Ware is assisting Jack's family with the final arrangements.  For more information and online guest book, please visit:  www.cebulafuneralhome.com .  

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