Donald D Stowers

Donald D. Stowers Sr. (90), affectionately known to many as “Pop”, died peacefully Friday February 21st at Mercy Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Springfield, MA and was the son of the late Winthrop and Catherine (Connors). During his formative years, he was commonly found with friends, hanging around “the blocks” or out on the football field. After schooling, he proudly enlisted and honorably served as a Marine in the Korean War. Following his years of military service, he worked in the fencing industry and though many times retired, often returned to the workforce as a mentor, never quite ready to sit still. He loved being out and about in the town of West Springfield, where he was fondly embraced by familiar faces who knew him as a figure of support; known to drop anything to lend a helping hand. He was fulfilled by countless hobbies where he could be outdoors and use his hands; always building, fixing and tinkering, and his animal companions, including many strays he picked up on the way. At the end of each year, he would spend months preparing Christmas boxes to place on the graves of loved ones and fellow veterans. Above all else, he treasured his wife, Shirley (Perusse), the life they created and their love story that spans 65 years married and beyond. His family was his pride and joy. He was a source of humor and wisdom and a protector to all, especially his grandchildren who took turns by his side when in need of a ride, advice or often just a safe space to land. Though he may have pretended otherwise, he was happiest when the house was bounding with laughter, conversation, and chaos, which was not uncommon thanks to frequent family gatherings. Aside from his wife, he leaves his adored siblings; Charles (Jean), Shirley McCarthy Keeler, and Beatrice (Jerome) McCarthy, 3 loving children; Donald Jr., Douglas (Shannon) and Kathleen (John) Bowers, 8 cherished grandchildren; Nicholas, Samantha, Alyssa, Ashley (Daniel), Meaghan (Brendan), Christopher, Hannah and Finley, 1 beautiful great granddaughter Delaney with a second great grandchild on the way, as well as many nieces and nephews who loved their “Uncle Don”. Aside from his parents, he is now reunited with siblings; Richard, Martin, Winthrop (Kathy) and Dorothy (Bruce) Cowles. Calling hours will be Friday February 28th from 10:30-12:30 at Toomey-O’Brien, 1043 Westfield St, W. Springfield, followed by a committal service at the Veterans Cemetery in Agawam. His legacy of love and service will live in our hearts forever. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Westfield Homeless Cat Project 1124 East Mountain Road Westfield, MA 01085 or an animal shelter of your choice.