Gilbert R. Dowling, 98, died Thursday, June 18, 2009 at Presbyterian Manor of the Plains in Dodge City. He was born on August 12, 1910 in Ford County the son of David and Mattie O. "Martha" (Alexander) Dowling.

Mr. Dowling attended schools in Dodge City and graduated from Dodge City High School in 1929. On December 17, 1930 he married Beatrice "Bee" Robinson in Dodge City. She preceded him in death on August 31, 1999. During WW II he first served in the U.S. Army and then in the U.S. Navy. Mr. Dowling was a salesman for Scheufler Supply Company of Dodge City for many years.

He was a member of First Presbyterian Church where he served as an elder and was past president of the Lions Club both of Dodge City.
Survivors include one granddaughter, Kimberly Ruble and husband Jimmy of Onalaska, Texas; several nieces and nephews including niece, Jean Winfrey and husband Don of Dodge City and niece, Donna Kline and husband Richard of Green Valley, Arizona; and two great grandchildren. In addition to his wife he was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Michael B. Dowling; three brothers, Carl, Glen and Don Dowling; and one sister, Mary Stout.

Funeral service will be held at Swaim Funeral Home in Dodge City on Monday, June 22, 2009 at 10:30 AM with Rev. Bill McConnelee presiding. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in Dodge City with military graveside rites by Howard Gotschall Post #1714 V.F.W. Visitation will be at Swaim Funeral Home on Sunday, June 21, 2009 from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Memorials can be made to First Presbyterian Church or Meals On Wheels in care of the funeral home.