James P. McDowell

James Prescott McDowell, 76, of Central Lake, passed away peacefully at Meadow Brook Medical Care Facility on March 31, 2024, surrounded by family. 

Jim was born on March 05, 1948, in Traverse City, MI, to James J. McDowell and Eunice (Johnston-McDowell) Empey. 

He was a 1966 graduate of Central Lake High School. He played football, basketball, and baseball for the CLHS Trojans and his love of sports continued beyond his high school years. He was an avid fan and supporter of all Central Lake sports programs, from little league to high school athletics, his love of sports spanned over decades and generations. He was a staple on the sidelines cheering for his children and, ultimately, his grandchildren. 

Jim was a friend to many. He was a hunter and a fisherman with a lot of great stories and tall tales. He enjoyed gardening and took great pride and joy in helping his cousin Dodd McDowell with lawn maintenance at the farm. 

More than anything, he loved spending time with his 8 grandchildren and 1 great grandson. Grandpa Jim will be missed. 

Surviving are his children, Julie (Scott) Papineau, Jennifer McDowell, Kristyn (Jake) Lombardo  and Jordan (Stephanie) McDowell, 2 sisters, Deb McDowell and Kelly Youmans, 8 grandchildren,  Trevor (Katelyn) Papineau, Grant Papineau, Luke, Amaya, Caroline and Logan Lombardo, Oliver  and Eliza McDowell, 1 great grandson, Cooper Papineau, 2 Uncles, Owen (Gail) McDowell and  Paul (Shirley) McDowell, a niece, Kylie (Nathan) Humble, great nephew, Charlie Humble,  nephew, Eric Youmans, great friend and cousin, Dodd (Jill) McDowell and many cousins. 

He was preceded in death by his parents James J. McDowell and Eunice (Johnston-McDowell) Empey. 

A private burial service at the Southern Cemetery in Central Lake, MI. 

Please join the family for a luncheon gathering on Friday, July 5th, at 3:45 at the McDowell Farm celebrating the life of Jim.

Memorial contributions may be made to Central Lake Public School Athletics, 8190 W State Street (PO Box 128), Central Lake, MI 49622.

Arrangements are under the care of the Central Lake Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.  Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com