John Wesley Mcdowell, Jr.

John Wesley McDowell, Jr., 98, of Cicero, IN, died April 27, 2016 at Riverview Health at Noblesville, IN. He was born February 12, 1918 at Fairbury, Nebraska to John Wesley and Bura (Tuggle) McDowell, Sr. He was a graduate of Lincoln High School at Lincoln, NE. John then served his country in the U.S. Army during WW II, receiving the American Theater Service Medal,and the EAME Service Medal with Two Bronze Stars among other awards. He became a draftsman for S.S. Kresge Company that later became KMart, using his artistic ability to design and provide the lay out for many stores. John also was a painter and his work included several murals. He designed and built a miniature model home including all the furniture and decorations. His talents also included creating and tending his flower gardens and writing an autobiography. His family described John as a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He also loved helping others and was a volunteer for several years at Riverview Hospital. He married Evelyn Berneice (Vibbert) McDowell on November 9, 1945. She survives him. Also surviving is a son: John Wesley McDowell, III and his wife Marla of Carmel, IN, a daughter: Jodi Lane Bickerstaff and husband Joe of Euless, TX, a brother: Jimmy "Mac" McDowell of Indianapolis, IN, 4 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a sister : Hertha Redmond and a brother: Waldo McDowell. Arrangements are entrusted to Hartley Funeral Homes Cicero Chapel, 209 West Jackson Street, Cicero, IN 46034, where you may send condolences at www.hartleyfuneralhomes.com. Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society for Hamilton County or Riley Hospital. Memorial services will be held at a later date.