Audre John Dowell

In Loving Memory of Audre John Dowell 

Audre John Dowell, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 89 in Arroyo Grande, California.  Born on March 31, 1936, John (as he was known to most) was a man whose life was defined by hard work, love for his family, and an enduring spirit of generosity. He passed away on December 26, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, laughter, and countless memories. 

John was a native Californian, born to parents, Audre Clifton and Ruth (Dana) Dowell of Nipomo, California. He was a great grandson of Captain William Goodwin and Maria Josepha (Carrillo) Dana, who founded Nipomo. He was raised on the same land where he built his own home in 1967. He attended Nipomo Elementary School in his formative years and later Arroyo Grande High School (Class of 1954) where he was active in FFA and played football. He continued his education and football at Antelope Valley Junior College in Lancaster, California. 

A skilled carpenter by trade for more than 60 years, John built not only homes, churches and schools but strong relationships with those around him. His work ethic was unmatched, and he was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. His craftsmanship was reflected in everything he touched, and his contributions to the community will never be forgotten. He took pride in the simple joys of life, from spending time hunting and shooting to his passion for barbequing for family and friends. John was a fixture at local sporting events, where his unwavering support for teams and his infectious enthusiasm left a lasting impression on all who knew him. 

Above all, John was known for his boundless kindness and selflessness. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 58 years (59 on January 14, 2026), Dolores (Becerra) Dowell, whose love and partnership were the cornerstones of his life. Together, they created a family rooted in faith, love, and respect. John cherished his role as a father to Dana (Dowell) Estrada (Kristopher), Joanna (Dowell) Johnson (Larry), and Jody Dowell (Juri), and he took great pride in being a grandfather to John Haruto, Justin Kaito and Jasmine Hana. He was a man whose presence filled a room with warmth, and his ability to make everyone feel welcome will be deeply missed. 

John is survived by his loving wife, children, and grandchildren, as well as a wide circle of friends and extended family who were fortunate enough to know him. He was predeceased by his parents, brother and sister-in-law, William David and Patricia Dowell, father and mother-in-law, John and Virginia Becerra, brother-in-law and sister-in-law, John and Chesterlyn Becerra, sister-in-law, Lillian Becerra and nephew, Adam Rodriguez. 

Services will be held in his honor on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Nipomo. The Rosary will begin at 9:30 am, followed by the Funeral Mass at 10:00 am. A reception will be held at the Parish Hall afterward, where family and friends can gather to share stories, celebrate John's life, and support one another during this difficult time. Catholic burial will be held at the Arroyo Grande Cemetery following the reception.  

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Jack’s Helping Hand (jackshelpinghand.org) in San Luis Obispo. John’s life was a testament to the power of kindness, and his memory will live in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. 

May John rest in peace, surrounded by the love and gratitude of all whose lives he touched. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel, Grover Beach, California

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Audre John Dowell, please visit our floral store.