Emeritus math professor David McDowell dies at 83
David G. McDowell (May 21, 1940 - March 8, 2024)
David McDowell, 83, of Mt. Pleasant, passed away Friday, March 8, 2024, at Henry Ford Hospital in Clinton Township with his family by his side.
David was born May 21, 1940, in Lansing, Michigan. Son of the late Addison L. and Marion I. (Strait) McDowell, David was raised by his grandparents, Harry and Mabel Strait.
After graduating from high school in Lansing, he earned his bachelor’s degree and Ph. D. from Michigan State University. After accepting a position as a math professor from Central Michigan University in 1970, he met the love of his life Yvonne Monroe. The couple wed on December 29, 1973, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Howell.
Upon David’s retirement from CMU in 2005, he was granted emeritus status from the Board of Trustees for his contributions to the math department throughout his 35-year career. He enjoyed family trips to Disney World and collecting pocket watches and train sets. He was skilled in woodworking and chess and was excellent in math research. He served on the Michigan mathematics prize competition examination committee from 1988-1990.
David is survived by his wife, Yvonne; four children, Jeff McDowell of Mt. Pleasant, Jennifer Garth of Dartmouth, MA, Amy (Mike) Seybert of Mt. Pleasant, and Da Jung Albus of Austin, TX; five grandchildren, Cassandra McDowell, Paige McDowell, Preston Garth, Gavin Seybert, and Aliana Seybert; brother, Judson (Jo Ann) McDowell of Temecula, CA; and aunt, Kathryn West. He was preceded in death by his parents, Addison and Marion McDowell; maternal grandparents, Harry and Mabel Strait; and paternal grandparents, Homer and Mary McDowell.
A Funeral Mass for David will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 13, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church where he was a member. Father Fred Kawka will preside. The family will receive friends at Charles R. Lux Family Funeral Home on Tuesday from 5-7 p.m. with the Vigil Service beginning at 7 p.m. Visitation continues at the church one hour prior to Mass. Following the Mass, Rite of Committal will be in Calvary Cemetery. All are invited to a meal at Lincoln Reception Center (attached to the funeral home).
Memorial contributions may be made to McNally Hospitality House in Saginaw. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home and church. To sign the online guest book or leave a condolence for the family please visit www.CharlesRLux.com
