Paul Fritz McDowell Jr.

Paul Fritz McDowell Jr., son of the late Paul Sr. and Betty Jean McDowell, was born on September 18, 1947, in Lorain, Ohio, and passed away peacefully at home on March 24, 2025, at the age of 77. A proud Vietnam War veteran, Paul lived a life rooted in service, strength, and quiet compassion.

He worked at U.S. Steel before dedicating decades of his life to the Lorain Fire Department, where he found his true calling. Rising to the rank of Lieutenant and serving as a paramedic, Paul's work touched countless lives. He also gave his time to the Sheffield Fire Department, the Lorain Sanitation and Street Departments, and served as a police officer with the Oberlin Police Department-always answering the call to help others.

Beyond his work, Paul lived fully and with heart. He found joy in gardening, landscaping, casting a line into Lake Erie, reading, music, playing the drums, and cheering on his favorite sports teams. He especially enjoyed chatting with his neighbors, always ready with a wave, a story, or a helping hand.

Paul will be deeply missed by his loving family and friends, who will carry his memory with them always.

Military service will be held at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery, 10175 Rawiga Road, Seville, Ohio, on Thursday, April 24th, 2025, at 1:25 PM.