Michael J Dowd, Sr. (1937 – 21 May 2024)
Originally from Madison, N.J., he and Barbara raised their family in East Hanover, N.J., then retired to Cape Cod, MA. Michael passed away peacefully on May 21st surrounded by his loving family.
He served in the Marines Corps from 1955-1959.
Michael earned his Heavy Equipment Operator’s and tractor trailer licenses in 1959 and went on to earn his Bachelor’s Degree from Rutgers University in 1971. During his 30+ year career, he worked selling Business Solutions (typewriters, dictating machines, etc) for the IBM Corporation and Apple Computer. He proudly held the distinction of earning 27 consecutive; “100% Clubs” for his sales achievements at the IBM Corporation (1960-1987). He loved the camaraderie with his workmates.
He loved dogs, especially Collies. He and Barbara were on their 7th Collie. He developed his love for dogs after getting his first dog (an Airedale) during his teen years. These beloved pets were the key to his and Barbara’s hearts. They nurtured and trained each of them and as a result, each had the most wonderful disposition. These beloved dogs were the definition of “man’s best friend.”
He was involved in different organizations that contributed greatly to his identity. These included; the Marine Corps League (Slattery Detachment), The Friendly Sons of St. Patrick and Project Children of Northern Ireland. For the latter, he and Barbara were a host family for children and young adults for 12 years. This program served as a respite (Catholics and Protestants) from the everyday violence and strife of their homeland. Michael identified deeply with the people that he met in these organizations due to their benevolence, ambition and he thrived on the camaraderie.
He touched the lives of many due to his warm, outgoing and ambitious nature.
Michael left his wife Barbara, of 62 years, his daughter Carolyn of Arlington, MA, his son Michael (wife Lyndsay), of North Andover, MA, and his grandchildren, Hadleigh and Tripp Dowd.
A Funeral Mass was celebrated on May 28, 2024 at Holy Trinity Church, in West Harwich, MA and burial followed at Island Pond Cemetery, Harwich, MA.
Michael J Dowd, Sr died on May 21, 2024.
