Barbara Ann McDowell

Barbara Ann McDowell, 98, passed away the morning of April 13, 2023 at Providence Hospital after a short battle with glioblastoma. She was born to Robert and Viola Meyers on May 16, 1924 in Chehalis, WA. She was raised along with her older sister, Marymae in that town, graduating from Chehalis High in 1942.

She married Russell Gootee in February 1949 and had four children in rapid succession; Michelle, Debbie, Mike and Janis. After filling the nest, Russ flew the coop a few years later (1962).

She met John McDowell at Sandpoint Naval Air Station and married him in June 1964. He stuck around to help raise her brood, eventually adding nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren to the nest.

She worked at various businesses as a bookkeeper. She was an active member of the St. Mary Magdalen Parish. Upon retirement, she and John traveled to Europe and crossed the US in their RV. They could really 'cut a rug' and were a joy to watch on the dance floor. Her hobbies included bowling, gardening, knitting and needlepoint. She was a worthy competitor in bridge, pinochle, scrabble, bananagrams and checkers. She was happiest with her grandchildren under her wing.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Marymae Tufts, her husband's Russ and John and her daughter, Michelle.

She is survived by her daughters; Deborah Hanson and Janis Krassin (Dan) and her son, Michael McDowell; her grandchildren; Michael Harsh, Justin Harsh, Jacob Leasure, Derek Hanson (Sarah), Courtney Rollins, Lindsey Krassin, Sara Krassin, Taylor McDowell (Karissa) and Carly McDowell. She also leaves behind three great-grandchildren; Emmy Swetland, Ezra Swetland and Monroe McDowell; niece Marcie McCune and nephew Tom Tufts.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity. There will be a memorial service at 1:00pm on Saturday, April 29 at St. Mary Magdalen Parish, 8517 7th Ave. SE, Everett with a reception following at that location. Interment will be held at 1:00pm on Monday, May 1 at Cypress Lawn Memorial Park, 1615 SE Everett Mall Way, Everett.