Samuel McDowell
courtesy photo
Samuel McDowell
RONAN – Samuel Russel McDowell, age 86, passed away on Thursday, March 3, 2016, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell. He was born on May 2, 1929, in Deer Lodge, the son of Frank and Mamie (Green) McDowell.
He grew up in the Big Hole and carried his family’s tradition of cattle ranching and also became a well-known rodeo legend.
Sam married Jewell Dean Anderson and had three beloved children, Doug, Rial and Shaunda. They lived a life of hard work but always knew how to have a good time.
He and Jay had friends who are spread across the U.S. far and wide. In his later years, Sam enjoyed a simpler life on his small ranch in Ronan, but his love for horses, cattle and the cowboy way of life never changed. He was a true cowboy who loved his family and his horses. He was a true hero to many.
Sam’s wife, best friend and love of his life, Jay McDowell and his two beloved sons Doug and Rial McDowell precede him in death.
He is survived by his daughter Shaunda J. Webb and husband Mike; his grandchildren, Samantha J. Henry and husband Eric; Teddy Jo Morrison and husband Colt all of Oklahoma; great–grandchildren, Lynia, Lola, and Huck Henry and Bella Starr Morrison.
Graveside services for Sam will be held on Monday, March 7, at 1 p.m. at the Riverview Cemetery in Hamilton with full Military Honors.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to Montana Pro Rodeo Hall and Wall of Fame Endowment, P.O. Box 930, Billings, MT 59103. Memories and condolences may be sent to the family at www.thelakefuneralhomeandcrematory.com.
Arrangements are under the direction of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.
