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
Our sincere condolences to the families of Richard and Eunice. Sending our love and prayers for peace and comfort. “Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.” Psalm 116:15
Dwanna and Leonard Schantz
Richard (Dick) and I first met in the early 1960s. We worked together in the mid 60s in Olathe,Kansas at the Educational Modulation Center (EMC). In the early 1970s, we both were hired by the University of New Mexico to assist Gary Adamson in developing the first Department of Special Education. Within three years, the Department was recognized as one of five Nationl teacher training models. We were truly blessed for Dicks strong commitment and leadership during the implementation stages of building a program from the ground floor up. Thanks Dick, RIP. Jim
I learned so much about Richard when I read the above eulogy. What an amazing person and what a remarkable life and a great example for those who knew him. Though I only met Richard a few times, I genuinely enjoyed those times. I especially remember golfing with him and Russ when we were in Branson, and my dad riding along with him in the golf cart. We had a great time. Aunt Eunice and family, we love you and are thinking of you as you celebrate Richard’s wonderful life. He will live on in your heart. Prayers and Hugs. God Bless you all.
My heart goes out to Richard and Eunice family he will truly be missed.
He had lots of love and laughter for everyone around him.
I dated Richard when we were freshmen at Baker. I was always proud to be his “girlfriend”. He was a nice guy and a good dancer. I’m glad he got to spend his last 22years with you Eunice. I know he was happy.