Lowdy

David J. “Lowdy” Lowdermilk, a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, showed up in heavenly realms on May 8, 2023, at the age of 85. Born in Aliquippa, PA, Dave spent his life spreading kindness accompanied by a refreshing wit, bringing his special brand of goodness to everyone around him.

Dave is survived by his wife of 37 years, Ann, and their loving family. He leaves behind his daughters Jennifer Lowdermilk (Tom Saathoff) and Leslie Lowdermilk, as well as Ann’s children Stephen Boll (Holly Farr), Heather Boll and Sharon Boll. His grandchildren Kendra, Aaron (Aubrey), Christopher (Mira), Matthew (Keely), Adrianna (Patrick) and great-grandson, Anthony, all savored the joy Dave carried with him in his relaxed, natural way.

A dedicated employee, Dave worked as a programmer for IBM in Glendale for over 30 years. In addition to his career, he worked as a passionate member of his community, serving as a deacon in his church and building beautiful birdhouses to sell at their booth at the Potato Festival in Richford. Dave took great pleasure in his almost 20 years as a New York State Track Official, with his specialty being the High Jump. He loved the athletes and cheered them on!

At home, he was the founder of the Annual Rutabaga Festival, making funny and creative gifts for attending friends, firing off little cannons, and stirring up warm memories for all. Going back some years, Dave happily served as Bob Healey’s “Promotional Agent” at get togethers; Bob playing his guitar and singing folk songs, accompanied by Dave’s slightly out of tune singing—always somehow magical. (Clearly, they are together again!) Looking even a little further back were those Owego-to-Nichols Raft Races on the Susquehanna River, fighting water currents with a crew of great friends, and possibly not entirely sea-worthy vessels. Dave’s life was rich with these things, and so much more, as those who spent time with him would attest.

Dave was a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend. He had the ability to light up a gathering wherever he was. A great sense of humor, a steadfast caring for others and a unique personality, he enjoyed who he was and dealt lightly with the shortcomings of others. These characteristics gave him freedom to take in the beauty of life.

As we remember Lowdy, let us celebrate his life, the laughter and the delight he brought to all of us who knew him. Warmth, kindness and a steady inner strength were his signature traits, and they live on beyond his stay here.

We will gather on Friday, May 26th at the Richford Congregational Church, with calling hours from 10:00 to 11:00 AM, followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 11:00 and a luncheon following, so that family and friends can come together to share stories, laughter and love in remembrance of a man who touched so many hearts. Memories and condolences may also be shared by visiting his guest book at www.macphersonfh.com. For those who wish to share a memorial in memory of Dave, you may remember Animal Care Sanctuary, 353 Sanctuary Hill Ln, East Smithfield, PA 18817

www.animalcaresanctuary,org.in his memory.