Robert Gerald “Gerry” McDowell, 61, of Iowa City, died Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, in Iowa City.Gerry was born Jan. 4, 1962, in Iowa City, to Robert and Elnora (Miner) McDowell. He graduated from Keota High School and attended Iowa Wesleyan University. On Dec. 27, 1991, he married Irene Schrock in Kalona. They lived in the Wellman and Keota areas for several years where Gerry did carpentry for several general contractors in the area. He and Irene were later divorced.
Gerry took great pride in his carpentry skills and built many things, including a play set for Laura, a canoe and a phenomenal doghouse. He loved football, especially the Iowa Hawkeyes, and enjoyed cycling, swimming, canoeing, hiking, roller coasters and his dog, King.Survivors include his daughter: Laura McDowell of Kalona; sister: Gina (Kelly) Bennett of Keota; former spouse: Irene McDowell of Kalona; niece: Andrea Bennett of Keota; and nephew: Christopher Bennett of Kalona.
He was preceded in death by his parents.Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 18, 2023, at the United Church of Faith, with Pastors Cathy Nutting and Phil Schrock officiating. Burial will be at Keota Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Saturday at the church.A memorial fund has been established for the United Church of Faith or Iowa City Public Library. Powell Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Keota is caring for Gerry and his family. Tributes may be made at www.powellfuneralhomes.com
