John E. McDowell, 85, of Calhoun, died on March 13, 2018 at Carle Richland Memorial Hospital. John was born on May 20, 1932 in Noble, IL. the son of Nathaniel McDowell and Goldie (Luke). John married Dorothy Myers on September 21, 1952. 

John was a barber at his home in Calhoun for 28 years and supervisor of the bus barn as well as a bus driver. He was very involved with mission trips and traveled to South America and Haiti. John enjoyed gardening and especially enjoyed growing sunflowers and rhubarb. He took pleasure in outdoor activities including fishing, hunting, and raising ponies. John was a people person and everybody enjoyed his company. He loved spending time with his family and grandchildren. John was a member of the Calhoun United Methodist Church.

John in survived by his wife of 65 years, Dorothy McDowell of Calhoun; daughters, Cheryl Farrar and husband Mike of Calhoun and Beverly Harrison and husband Gerald of Olney; grandchildren, Greg Thomas, Jennifer Berry, Lee Harrison, and Josh Harrison; great grandchildren, Bradley, Brandon, Dakota, Kristina, Kaylee, Naleigha, Cheyenne, Cassie, Callen, and Lana; sister, Becky Schmucker and husband Bob; and several nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by parents; brothers, Lowell McDowell and Charles McDowell; and sister, Helen Davis.

Funeral service at Calhoun United Methodist Church, Calhoun, IL

Kistler-Patterson Funeral Home (IL) – March 13, 2018