Donlin Dow Obituary

Donlin Gerald Dow

"Straight Outta Buena Park"

Donlin (Donny) Dow, born in Anaheim, CA, to Gerald Alan Dow and Roberta Mae Strickland on August 11, 1975, died suddenly in his home in Buena Park, CA, on December 3, 2019 at 44 years old.

He is survived by his father, Gerald (Jerry) Alan Dow; his Step-Mother, Jodi Carullo; his two sisters, Amanda Dow-Crawford, and Candis (Candy) Banner-Dodd; his two brothers Gary Banner and David Banner; his two sons Nathan Alan Dow, William (Billy) Gerald Dow; and his Fiancee, Michelle Stingl and their dog, Duke.

Donny graduated from Buena Park High School in 1993, where he was part of the wrestling and football teams. Upon graduating, he joined the Navy and served as BM1 (SW) USN, special group, "Boats" as a brother, friend and protector. He proudly served in the Navy for 13 years and afterwards used his knowledge of the family trade, plumbing, to work at Pipe Express and then Ferguson Pipe and Supply until 2019. 

Like his Grandparents (Bill and Helen Dow) and Father (Jerry), he joined the American Legion and served as the youngest Commander of Post 354, Buena Park, in 2014.  He continued to serve as an active member, brother and guardian to many. He enjoyed serving “his vets” and was known to give the shirt off his own back or take time out of his own night to make sure someone was cared for and remembered. 

Donny enjoyed the company of his friends and family most, whether that was telling jokes over a pitcher of beer, deep sea fishing, at a Dodger’s game, or while finding new places to eat and explore.  His greatest love and pride were his sons. His devotion them was constant, and he was a proud, loving father who took every opportunity he could to tell you all about them.   

He was making plans to fulfill his most current goals to marry his beloved fiancée, help his sons follow their dreams and fulfill his own lifelong dream; "To play the cowbell dressed in full mariachi uniform with a mariachi band…" He was not able to finish these, and for this we mourn.

Donny Dow, you inspired and caused more people to feel loved in your short life, then most. You infected most of us with laughter because of your special grin and the undercover giggle that went with your, one line, often inappropriate, jokes. You will be remembered as always saying goodbye to anyone you loved with the most phenomenal hug, and the words "I Love You…"

May the cow bells ring ...

Memorial Service and Military Honors

 on

January, 18, 2020

2 pm

@

Buena Park American Legion Post 354

8071 Whitaker Street

Buena Park, CA 90621

After the Military and formal services there will be a celebration of life for those who wish to share memories and remember his life.  Food is welcome at the service in dispensable dishes, however, for those who want to contribute flowers, cards, monetary contributions or services to the memorial, the family has set up a donation link for his children, for those who wish to contribute:

GoFund Me: Donny Dow Memorial Fund