Richard Lane McDowell

Richard Lane McDowell was born 12/31/38 in Chanute, Ks. passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his wife Eunice and family on August 14, 2023.

Richard was preceded in death by his father, Leo Bertrand McDowell; mother, Gwenneth Harlene Allman; and his first wife Marlene McDowell.

Richard is survived by his 2 children: Scott Andrew McDowell and Keri Suzanne McDowell; sisters Sharon and Gloria and brother, Leo.

In 2001 Richard married Eunice Langenhorst. They were married for 22 years. With this union Richard was blessed with 5 more adult children and spouses (Curt and Nadja, Kelly and Russ, Joe, Ron and Trish and Kristi and Eric), thirteen grandchildren and ten great grandchildren.

Richard obtained his Bachelor’s Degree from Baker University where he played college basketball and football. He earned his Master’s Degree in Education from Emporia State University in Kansas and subsequently his Doctorate Degree in Special Education at the University of Kansas. He published 2 books on child psychology and child development.

A dedicated reader of the Bible and committed to his faith, Richard was a deacon in his church where he sang and played the guitar in the church choir, and taught numerous Bible study classes, his favorite being God’s Spiritual Gifts.

Richard’s outside activities included playing, singing and writing music, singing in a gospel quartet and playing in a blue grass band. He was a member of the Solera Men’s Bible Study Group. He enjoyed playing any type of card game or dominos and generally he would win as he could count cards and add numbers on dominos faster than a calculator. After the games were played, ice cream was always on the agenda either at home or Dairy Queen. His favorite pastime was golf and yes, he was good! All you had to do to get Richard to talk was to ask him about his golf game.

Richard was a quiet man with deep introspection. I never heard him use a curse word or speak negatively about anyone. From a personal side, I had deep respect and admiration of Richard for his intellect, faith and devotion to the family! While family camping trips were not his favorite activity, Richard would join the trips so he could participate in family activities.

Although Richard was a man of few words, when you spoke to him you knew he was listening because he often gave different perspectives, suggestions or advice which was appreciated and well received.

Richard, you served God’s purpose by exemplifying your spiritual gifts to family and friends. The Latin Phrase “Exemplum Docet” means the “Example Teaches” which you truly did. May all of us strive to live our lives by setting a positive example.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Desert Mountain Bible Fellowship, 3817 E. Rolling Green Way, Chandler, AZ 85249 or to Wounded Warriors, PO Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675-8516