Rita Kathleen McDowell (84) passed away in the company of her family on Sept. 19, 2016 in Kalispell, Montana. She was born in Opheim, Montana May 29, 1932 to Harley and Mary Ann Maurer. She graduated from Flathead High School before attending business school. In 1955 she married Robert McDowell, her husband of 46 years. They started and raised their family in the Flathead, where Rita remained for the rest of her life.
She loved the forests and vistas of the valley and especially enjoyed trips into Glacier Park. Rita had a love of animals, both wild and domestic, and retained an innocence that allowed her a special ability to interact with them. She also loved music and often attended concerts. Always on the lookout for a bargain, she loved to go to yard sales and search out treasures.
Perhaps her greatest joy was in visiting with people, especially her friends, and she was regularly found at the Senior Center sharing conversation into the afternoon. Her generosity, kind spirit, and easy smile will be missed by all who knew her.
Rita is survived by her sons, Dan and Greg; her brother, Glen; and sisters Marilyn and Marjorie. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, and sister, Janis.
A Remembrance will be held in her honor Oct. 7, 2016 at 2 pm at the Buffalo Hill Funeral Home. A reception will follow at the Kalispell VFW.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to either the Northwest Montana Veterans Food Pantry or the Agency on Aging Meals on Wheels program. Friends are encouraged to visit our website at www.buffalohillfh.com to leave notes of condolences for the family. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home and Crematory caring for the family.