Ellean McDowell

O n Monday, September 16, 2019, Ellean (Hallier) McDowell, loving mother, grandmother, and aunt passed away at the age of 89 in Olathe, Kansas. Ellean was born on June 14, 1930, in Vermillion, Kansas to John and Reva (Junod) Hallier.  After graduating from high school in Centralia, Kansas she moved to Kansas City, where she found employment, and lived with her sister, LaVon Maxon.

Ellean married Dean Bridgforth and had two sons, David and Craig. She was later married in August of 1964, to Bill McDowell who had two boys, Kevin and Keith, and a daughter, Lynne.

Ellean was devoted to her home and her family. She had a way of making holidays and special occasions fun and magical. Her children love to recall the many things she did such as making delicious candies and cookies for Christmas, and decorating the house –all sprinkled with love.  Her love for cards and games spilled over into her children.

She loved the Lord, and spent many hours poring over her Bible, and was involved in group Bible studies. Her final goal in life was to go to her eternal home in heaven to be reunited with her family, and to worship at the feet of Jesus.

Ellean was preceded in death by her father, John, and her mother, Reva, as well as her siblings, Victoria, LaVon, and Otto, and her stepson, Kevin. She is survived by her children, David, (Silke), Craig (Shannon), Keith (Charlene), and Lynne (Tim). Ellean had 12 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, not forgetting her nephews, all of whom loved her laughter and enthusiasm.

A Memorial Service will be held at the Countryside Church, 175th & Quivira in Overland Park, KS at 10:00 AM on Saturday, September 21, 2019. Food will be served following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Topeka Rescue Mission, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia Street, Sabetha, KS 66534.