Gary L. Dowler

SIOUX CITY -- Gary L. Dowler, 75, of Sioux City died Monday, Nov. 21, 2011, at his residence following a brief illness. Abiding by the family's wishes, the body was cremated. There will be no services. Arrangements are under the direction of Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel. Condolences may be sent online to www.meyerbroschapels.com. Gary was born June 17, 1936, in Winfield, Kan., the son of Chester and Helen (Mead) Dowler. He grew up in Arkansas City, Kan., and graduated from Arkansas High School. He served in the U.S. Army and then went to Cowley County College, receiving a degree in accounting. He married Myrtle Bilyeu, and she passed away in 2005. Gary had been a farmer. He enjoyed NASCAR. He is survived by nine children and their spouses, James and Barb Stephens of Texas, Janet and Paul Schneider of Kansas, Dale and Pam Stephens of Oklahoma, Eric and Jelynn Stephens of Arizona, Sandra and Kenny Cook of Florida, Floyd Stephens of South Dakota, Karla and Mike Mongan of Kansas, Linda and Vince Stroman of Iowa, and Martha and Mark Hewitt of Arizona; 40 grandchildren; and 44 great-grandchildren and two on the way. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Myrtle; and two sisters. Memorials may be made in his name to the Big Sioux Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association or the American Heart Association.