Clarence Edwin McDowell, Jr.

Our kind and compassionate father, grandfather, and great-grandfather returned to his heavenly home on February 21, 2026, surrounded by family. Clarence (Junior) was born in Yuma, Arizona, on December 20, 1946, to Mary Ann Flores and Clarence E. McDowell. He later moved to the Ogden area, where he attended Ogden City Schools.

He married the love of his life, Freda Palmer, on April 10, 1962. They enjoyed over 62 years together until her passing in 2024. Dad was the most selfless individual, finding joy in making everyone around him feel loved, cared for, and important. He took a genuine interest in the lives of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and attended as many of their events as possible. Family was always his greatest priority, and it was obvious that no other accomplishment in life compared to the happiness of those he loved. He was fiercely loyal and although he endured difficult times throughout his life, he never complained or spoke negatively of others. His positive attitude and calm disposition were truly admirable.

He loved fishing, hunting, taking long drives, and he taught us to appreciate and enjoy the simple things in life. We have many fond memories of Dad doing our hair, patiently untangling many a fishing line, and pointing out animals on the regular rides we took through the mountains, Hardware Ranch and camping in Blacksmith Fork Canyon. Our Dad never missed a single Valentines Day, where we received a unique token of love he handpicked. He was the perfect example of an honest, hard-working man in cowboy boots who, when it came to his daughters and family, revealed the gentlest and most caring heart — a proud and devoted “girl dad” and husband.

He loved all sports, particularly football, and kept track of the favorite teams of his family. He could readily share the latest information and always tried to add an encouraging word when teams weren’t doing so well. He loved reading, crossword puzzles, playing Croquet, game shows, various TV series and westerns, striking up a conversation with strangers, and had a very sharp memory. He was a Chevrolet man through and through and enjoyed the various trucks he had throughout the years.

He was a great example of someone who worked hard and he was grateful for the positions he held at Parkes Meat Packing, Ogden Iron Works, Cream O’ Weber Dairy, Western Dairymen Cooperative Inc., and Deans Foods. After retirement, he devoted his time to serving our Mom and those around him. As Mom’s dementia progressed, he poured his whole heart and soul into taking care of her, even though it became extremely difficult. After her passing, Dad continued taking care of the house exactly how our Mom did and he tried to be positive and happy for everyone else. We find comfort in knowing our Mom and Dad have been reunited.

We are grateful for the professional and compassionate care our Dad received at Ogden Regional Medical Center. The nursing staff in Intermediate Care and the Intensive Care Unit went above and beyond to assist during this difficult time. Also special thanks to Northern Utah Cardiovascular Associates, particularly Dr. Robert Zink, Dr. Muhammad Khan, Dr. Charles T. Ivester, Physician Assistants/Nurse Practitioners, and Elisabeth Anderson PA-C from Ogden Clinic, who tried everything to mend a broken heart.

Junior is survived by his two daughters, Tresa Victor, Lisa (Todd) Kennedy; six grandchildren: Chris (Allisha) Scheffel, Jennifer Preisler, Michael (Ashleigh) Nistler, Jessica Nistler, Alec (Kelsey) Kennedy, and Austin (Kinzie) Kennedy: 11 great-grandchildren; siblings, Mike McDowell, Dennis (Valerie) McDowell, Scott (Kelley) McDowell, John (NanCee) McDowell, and Melissa True. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Freda, parents, Clarence and Mary Ann; sisters, Shirley and Debbie, and great-grandchildren, Jameson Thomas Nistler and Asher William Kennedy.

At his request, formal services will not be held. A family gathering will take place at a later date and Mom and Dad will be laid to rest together.

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