Francis Carlyle Dowling “Frank”, 97, entered into rest on May 12, 2016 in Escalon, CA. He was born on November 3, 1918 in De Smet, South Dakota.
   He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Barbara who he was married to for over 46 years and his siblings; Edward, Paul, Lyle, John and Mary.
   Mr. Dowling is survived by his ten children; Mark Edward Dowling (Sue), Dennis Paul Dowling (Paula), Debra Ann Houck (Norm), Sean Francis Dowling (Cher), Erin Marie Custer (Cody), Curt Lyle Dowling (Cynthia), Carrie Elena Musquiz, Kelly John Dowling, Scott Andrew Dowling (Laurette), and Casey Christopher Dowling (Rebecca). He was blessed by 26 grandchildren; Paige, Taylor, Maura, Denee, Paul, Jessica, Sarah, Mark, Trisha, Shona, Chris, Lauren,  Kevin, Abigail, Jennifer, Ryan, Dillon, Kelly, Scott, Nick, Adam, Zachary, Savannah, Isabelle, Casey and Amanda. In addition Frank is survived by 12 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.
   Frank proudly served his country through the United States Army. He was a WWII Veteran - Rank T-4 stationed at Fort Mac Arthur, Camplee, VA and Fort Bliss, Texas finally being honorably discharged receiving the American Campaign medal, Good Conduct medal, and Victory medal.  Frank was truly a Jack of all trades, working in various fields; Western Union, Dairyman, Retail, Aircraft Assembler, Aircraft Mechanic, Pilot, Postal Worker, Real Estate Agent, Insurance Agent, Yard Manager (Kaiser Cement), and finally retiring as a Foreman Sprinkler Fitter for local 709 United Association of Sprinkler Fitters. Frank enjoyed the simple things in life, he was a true patriot, Christian, family man, son, brother, uncle, husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He loved to ride the train, watch the news for hours all while listening to the radio and reading the newspaper. He will be remembered for his infectious “silent” laugh, his gentle soul and his zest for life. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
   P.L .Fry is honored to be serving the Dowling family. A service will be held on Thursday, June 2, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Paul of the Cross Church, 14020 Foster Rd., La Mirada, CA. He will be laid to rest with his beloved wife Barbara at Rose Hills Cemetery, 3888 Workman Mill Rd., Whittier, CA. An online guest book is available for condolences at www.plfryandson.com (search obituaries).

Escalon
Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin
Friday, May 27, 2016