Jan. 15, 1948 — July 1, 2014

Michael James Dowling, Jr., 66, of Plano, Texas, formerly of Niles, died on Tuesday, July 1, 2014. Mike was born on Jan. 15, 1948, to Michael and Margaret (Peg) Dowling in Niles.

Mike graduated from Niles High School in 1966, attended St. Joseph’s College in Rensselaer, Indiana, and earned a BBA in Accounting and Finance from North Texas State University.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law, Jay Horner. He is survived by siblings Timothy (Stacy) Dowling, Patrick (Cathy) Dowling, Mary Patricia Dowling, and Sheila (Dowling) Horner; and nieces and nephews, Caroline and Michael Beal, Ryne, Caitlin, Kelly, and Jenna Dowling, Natalie, Mallory and Allison Horner.

Mike worked in accounting and finance for Associates Financial Services. After retiring from Associates, he enjoyed a second career as a real estate agent in the Dallas area.

Mike loved talking to people and made many friends at every stage in his life. He enjoyed reading, investing, trivia, golf and all sports, especially Notre Dame football. Recently, Mike emotionally recounted his experience of serving as a “greeter” at the Dallas/Ft. Worth Airport for U.S. soldiers returning home from Iraq. He said it was one of the most meaningful experiences of his life. Mike will be missed by his family and friends.

Mike’s family will receive friends and relatives at Halbritter Funeral Home on Saturday, July 26, 2014, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. with Committal Rites immediately following at Calvary Cemetery in Niles.

Contributions in Mike’s memory can be made to The First Tee of Benton Harbor, 201 Graham Avenue, Benton Harbor, MI 49022 or The Wounded Warrior Project, c/o Dan Palmer, WWP, 4567 Chamberlain Road, Buchanan, MI 49107 or 4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL 32256.

www.halbritterfunerals.com