Duane F. Dow

Duane F. Dow     “beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother & friend”

AUSTIN---Duane F. Dow, 65, a lifelong resident of Austin, passed away with his loving family by his side on Monday, November 20, 2017, in UPMC Hamot, Erie, after a long illness.

Born on April 23, 1952 in Coudersport, he was a son of Harold F. and Wilma Frances Montgomery Dow.  On July 24, 1970 in the Austin United Methodist Church, he married Peggy L. “Peg” Turner, who survives.

Duane was a graduate of Austin High School, Class of 1970.  He was employed by Emporium Specialties in Austin for over 40 years, retiring in 2016.  In his youth, he worked at the former Roy’s Store in Austin.

Duane was a member of the Austin United Methodist Church, where he was very active in many activities at the church.  He was a very active member of the Austin Pride Committee, working tirelessly to ensure the annual fireworks display in Austin.  He was a life member of the Austin Volunteer Fire Department and the Austin Ambulance Association and had previously served on the Austin Borough Council.  He enjoyed fishing.  He was a Buffalo Bills fan and a New York Yankees fan. His greatest love was his family.

Surviving besides his wife are two daughters, Jennifer L. (Bill) Betts of Johnstown, N.Y. and Deanna M. (Bradley) Jones of Coudersport; three grandchildren, Drake Anthony Jones, Landon William Betts and Skyler Gloria Betts; six siblings, Doris C. Dow of Allentown, David M. Dow of East Hardwick, VT, Dennis C. (Sharon) Dow of Bradenton, FL, Danny E. Dow of Austin, Diane E. (Michael) Lovell of Coudersport, and Dean M. (Cathy) Dow of Coudersport: and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Duane was predeceased by two brothers, Donald R. Dow and Douglas M. Dow.

Family and friends may call from 9am to noon on Saturday, November 25, 2017 at the Austin United Methodist Church, Austin, where funeral services will follow at noon with his pastor and friend, the Rev. Steven D. Small, officiating.  Burial will be in Forest Hill Cemetery, Austin.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Austin United Methodist Church, PO Box 8, Austin, PA 16720 or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Duane’s family has entrusted his care to Kevin J. Dusenbury, Funeral Director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.

To express condolences or share a fond memory of Duane, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com