Obituary of Kenneth W Dowding Jr.

Kenneth W. “Kenny” Dowding, Jr., 90, of Manchester beloved husband of the late Elizabeth W. Dowding, died Thursday, April 12, 2018 at his home.  Born in Rockville, he was the son of the late Kenneth W. Dowding, Sr. and Ella (Yost) Dowding, grew up in Rockville and had lived in Manchester for 63 years.  He was a US Navy veteran of World War II, having served in the Seabees with the 27^th Special Battalion in the Pacific Theatre.  Kenny was an all around happy guy that loved life, had a tremendous sense of humor, and was always lending a helping hand.  He loved his family, and was a dedicated father and grandfather. He enjoyed spending family time at Crystal Lake, as a child and later with his own family.  Kenny also had a real sweet tooth and loved his late wife’s cooking.  He also had a love of animals, old cars and antique trucks.  Kenny was a charter member of Antique Truck Historical society.  He belonged to the American Legion and the Manchester VFW.  He is survived by his children Mary V. Dowding of Tolland, Kenneth "Butch" Dowding, III of Manchester, Jane-Ann Stetson of Stafford Springs and Jean-Ann Hickey and her husband Robert of Cicero, NY; four grandchildren Jason Stetson, Jonathan Hickey, Joseph Hickey and Amanda Earl and his great grandchildren Josiah, Savannah and Alyssa.  He is also survived by a sister-in-law Jane M. White, several nieces and nephews, and his “adopted” daughter Nancy Funcheon as well as many close family friends.  In addition to his wife and parents, he was predeceased by two siblings.  Kenny’s family would like to offer a special note of thanks to VNA Health Services of CT and A Caring Hand for their compassion and care during hospice.  Funeral service will be held on Monday, April 16^th at 11:00 a.m. at the John F. Tierney Funeral Home 219 West Center St. Manchester followed by burial in St. Bridget Cemetery, Manchester.  Family and friends may call at the funeral home on Sunday from 2:00-4:00 p.m.  In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the CT Humane Society 701 Russell Road Newington, CT 06111 (or click here.) For online condolences please visit www.tierneyfuneralhome.com.