David "Dave" Wayne McDowell

WATAGA - David Wayne “Dave” McDowell, 59, of rural Wataga, died Saturday, August 9, 2025 at his home. He was a loving husband, father, son, brother and uncle with a kind and gentle spirit.

Cremation will be accorded and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Inurnment will be held at Walnut Grove Cemetery in Altona. Memorials may be directed to the Knox County Humane Society. Rux Funeral Home in Galva is assisting the family with arrangements.

He was born on November 26, 1965 in Galesburg, the son of Fred and Patsy (Sopher) McDowell. He married Ellen Parnaby on June 21, 2002 in Abingdon. She survives as does his son, Daniel, who was his pride and joy, his parents, Fred and Patsy of Altona, two sisters, Sally Barsema of Wataga and Susan (Bob) Wernsman of Abingdon and several nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Dave graduated from ROVA High School in 1983. He then attended and graduated from Southern Illinois University with a BS in Zoology. He worked as a LEHP (Licensed Environmental Health Practitioner) for Warren County. In earlier years, he spent almost 20 years at the Knox County Humane Society. Dave loved animals and had rescued and fostered countless dogs and cats over the years. He also enjoyed plants and spending time outdoors and in nature. He was also a fine craftsman and woodworker.

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