Albert J. “Bud” Dowdle

Albert was born on Jan. 7, 1932, in Chicago, the son of the late Charles and Gertrude (Butzke) Dowdle. The family relocated to Breitung Township in 1934 where Albert remained a lifelong resident.

He graduated from Kingsford High School in 1950, then joined the U.S. Marine Corps where he eventually became a drill instructor, graduating five classes of marines. After an honorable discharge Albert did a 4 year indentured machinist apprenticeship at the Washburn trade school while working for the Goodman Manufacturing Company in Chicago. Upon graduation he became their leadman in the lathe department.

In 1957, Albert moved back to his home to work for Eagle Tool company. He started at the Hanna Mine in 1959 where he worked until it closed in 1981. Following the closure of the mine Albert spent three months in Colombia, South America, consulting for a Hanna Nickel Mine startup. Albert later went into real estate and then worked at Kleiman Pump and Well Drilling until his retirement.

Bud loved going out for a “lunch,” music, people and dogs. If you knew Bud, you know he was an avid hunter and outdoorsman. He loved to tell hunting stories and continued making such memories by hunting elk in Colorado at the age of 82, definitely a special hunt for all. Camp, cards, and keeping company with family was important.

Albert J. “Bud” Dowdle

Over the years Albert was a member of the sportsman club and joined their bow tournaments; actually hitting robin hood. He was also a member of Whitetails Unlimited, the Jaycees and continued supporting a variety of organizations throughout his life with generous donations. He was a member of First Baptist Church where for many years he enjoyed and supported church gatherings, especially activities for the children. Children and dogs always put a smile on his face.

Albert was a fella who always had some smart remark, poem or “saying” to share. His outgoing manner is reflected in the number of people he has known. No matter where you were, he always knew someone and would stop to shoot the breeze with them for a bit.

In most recent years, “Bud” may or may not have remembered you on your visits to the nursing home, but he certainly enjoyed them, as well as interactions with any and all who passed through the halls of ManorCare. The staff got to know him and became a second family. Their continued care and support for him and his family right to the end will not be forgotten. Albert will be missed by many; but we rejoice in knowing he has now joined his Heavenly Father and is at peace.

He is survived by his son, Terry (Monica) Dowdle of Breitung Township; his daughter, Sherri (Randy) Lauritson of Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.; six grandchildren, Ashley Dowdle, Anthony Dowdle, Brandee Lauritson, Bradley Lauritson, Joseph Dowdle, and Terrance Dowdle II; one sister, Mary Alice “Archie” George of Iron Mountain; one brother, John Dowdle of Kingsford; many nieces and nephews, and the mother of his children, Mariann Branz Goodchild.

Bud is further survived by his second wife, Annette (Cram) Dowdle; step-son, Daniel (Kelly) Cram; step-daughters, Becky (John) Horning, Nanette (Bob) Trecartin, Tammy (Carl) Smoot, along with numerous grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Albert was preceded in death by his brothers, James Dowdle, Paul (Rose) Bodel, and Charles (Ruth) Dowdle; his sister, Shirley Alleva-Oman, a brother-in-law, Fadel George, and a step-daughter Jacquelyn (Cram) Meyer.

Due to COVID-19 concerns, only a military graveside service will be held on Friday, Oct. 23, at 2:30 p.m. at Cemetery Park in Iron Mountain. Interment will follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his honor to: Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Michigan Chapter, 25200 Telegraph Rd. STE 100, Southfield, MI 48033-7443

Condolences to the family of Albert “Bud” Dowdle May be expressed online at www.ernashfuneralhomes.com

The family has entrusted the Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home with the arrangements.