William Dowling

William (Bill) Dowling, a resident of Sheffield, MA passed away unexpectedly on February 15, 2023, at the age of 73 at Fairview Hospital in Great Barrington, MA.

Bill was born in Hartford, CT on August 23, 1949 to the late Thomas and Anne (Kahrmann) Dowling. He was raised in New Britain, CT where he attended and graduated Pulaski High School class of 1968. Following high school, he was drafted and went on to serve in the United States Army during the Vietnam War from May 1969 to December 1970. Among his honors of distinction, he was awarded the Purple Heart and was honorably discharged from the military due to injuries he sustained while valiantly protecting the freedom and safety of the United States of America in Vietnam. As an after-effect of his injuries, Bill faced challenges that many combat veterans suffer in the years to follow, but through it all his quiet and gentle strength persevered. He worked as a small engine mechanic, loved anything on wheels, was an amateur photographer and was a devoted member of the American Legion. He was generous and thoughtful, and his family and close friends will miss his presence in our lives.

Bill is survived by his brother John Dowling and wife Betty, brother Chuck Dowling and sister Lisa (Dowling) Salomon, Sister-in-law Linda Dowling and many nieces, nephews, cousins and life-long close friends Chuck and Zoe Nelson and the Nelson family. He was predeceased by his younger brother Timothy Dowling.

SERVICES — A gathering in celebration of Bill’s life including Military Honors will be held May 13, 2023 at 09:00 at the VA Cemetery, 317 Bow Lane, Middletown, CT. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Disabled American Veterans (DAV).