William "Bill" Virgil Dowden

William "Bill" Virgil Dowden, age 79, of Kokomo, Indiana passed away on Sunday, March 12, 2023. He was born September 20, 1943 to Virgil and Lola Dowden. He was a graduate of Frankfort High School, class of 1962. He enlisted in the Marine Corp upon graduating, where he served in Vietnam. He married Marybeth Branam December 21, 1963 in Frankfort, Indiana. He worked for Delco Electronics in skilled trades, retiring after 32 years. He loved being home with his wife, playing on the computer and watching Indiana sporting events on TV. Bill was one of the founders of the 24 Hour club, a home for 12 step programs in Kokomo. He was active in the recovery community since 1986 until his death. He will be remembered for sharing his love of gaming and his wonderful sense of humor. Bill is survived by his wife, Marybeth; his children, Melissa (Tim) Maroney, Marcia Dowden, Melinda (Paul) Chesterson and Mark (Rachel) Dowden; grandchildren, Austin Maroney, Meghan Maroney, Amber (Julian) Jester, Chase (Maggie) Johnson, Bailey Johnson, Tim (Ceres) Chesterson. Julia (Tyler) Kessler, Shania (Joe) Harkins, Rebecca Dowden, Mark Dowden, Jr., Connor Dowden, Anthony Dowden and Steven Jordan; as well as 6 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, 4 siblings, a son, and a grandson. A memorial gathering will take place Thursday, March 23 from 3pm to 6pm, at Ellers Mortuary and Cremation Center, 3400 S. Webster St., Kokomo, with a funeral service beginning at 6pm. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ellersmortuarywebster.com for the Dowden family.