Richard L. Dowling

Richard L. Dowling, 61, lifelong resident of Manhattan entered eternal rest on, Monday, December 7th, 2015. Richard was born on October 3, 1954, to the late Mary Elizabeth (Lancaster) Dowling and James P. Dowling in Manhattan, Kansas. Richard attended Lee Elementary School and was a graduate of Manhattan High School. While at Manhattan High he met the love of his life, Debbie, they were married on November 21, 1972 in Council Grove, Kansas. She preceded him in death on November 23, 2013. Richard was a humble, gracious and caring man who was a source of great strength to his family, friends and anyone he encountered. He made himself available to listen to all and offer well thought advice. Putting others before him was how he carried out each and every day of his life. Richard's smile and laugh was a ray of sunshine that illuminated the kindness in his heart. Richard's life and legacy has left a mark in many lives that will forever be cherished and missed. Richard was employed at Griffith Lumber to which he devoted his life to. He was a wealth of knowledge in the building industry with an abundance of customers to which he considered friends whom will all miss him deeply. There is not a day that passed he was not available to help anyone accomplish the dream of remodeling or building a new home. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, his wife; Debbie, a brother; Curtis, and one grandson, Tyler Dowling-Burnett. In memory of our parents we ask that you take a moment to hug your spouse, children, grandchildren, and friends or take a walk in the clear crisp air to reflect your love for those you find dear to you as time waits for no one. Survivors include son, Brian (Christy), a daughter, Angie M. Dowling-Burnett, (Tracy), both of Manhattan; a son, Travis (Cherylynn), of Baldwin City. Seven grandchildren; Austin, Mary, Taylor, Brianna, Tanner, Isabella (Izzy), and Adalynn (Addi); One soon to be granddaughter, Anne-Mae; one great grandson, Kadin. A sister, Patricia Parr (Hal) of Topeka; a brother Gregg Dowling, of British Columbia, Canada, as well as a niece and numerous nephews and friends. Funeral services will be held Friday, December 11th, at 10:30 at the First Presbyterian Church, 801 Leavenworth, Manhattan, Kansas, with Pastor Patrick McLaughlin officiating. Cremation has taken place. Inurnment will be held at a later date at the St. Patrick's Cemetery. Arrangements are being handled by Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home & Cremation, 1317 W. Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas, 66502. Family request donations in lieu of flowers to: The Richard Dowling Family Memorial Fund or The American Heart Association. Please send donations in care of Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home & Cremation, 1317 W. Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas, 66502. Online condolences may be left at: Irvinparkview.com.