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Saturday, April 27, 2024 at 4:25 AM

DOWLING

DOWLING

DOWLING

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Julia Lavinia Dowling, 82, of Johnstown, a cherished soul who left us on January 29, 2024, surrounded by family. Julie was a remarkable individual, leaving behind a legacy of love, passion, and creativity that touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Born on September 20, 1941, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to Alton and Rebecca Randolph, Julie married Leo “Jim” Dowling on December 18, 1960, in New Orleans. The day after the wedding, they packed their belongings into a Volkswagen Bug and adventured to North Canton, Ohio, where they began to build a life and family together. In 1972, she, Jim, and their three children, Laura, Matt, and Neil, moved across the country to Wheat Ridge, Colorado, where they adventured for 33 years. Jim and Julie retired to Johnstown in 2005, drawn by its smalltown friendliness, history, and wonderful community activities.

Julie developed an early appreciation for the beauty of nature, evident in the complex gardens she cultivated that were a testament to her dedication, patience, and nurturing spirit. Her green thumb transformed every patch of soil into a vibrant tapestry of colors and fragrances. For many years she served as president of the Johnstown Garden Club.

Julie’s love for photography was another avenue through which she expressed her deep connection to the world around her. Whether it was the bloom of a flower, the candid smiles of her loved ones, or her wedding photography business, Julie had a unique ability to capture the magic.

Family was the cornerstone of Julie’s life. She was a devoted spouse, a loving parent, and a doting grandparent. Her home was a haven of warmth and laughter, where every gathering was infused with love and shared stories. Julie’s nurturing nature extended beyond her immediate family, as she embraced friends and acquaintances with open arms, creating a sense of belonging for everyone fortunate enough to be in her circle.

Julie’s compassion wasn’t just limited to humans; she had an immense love for animals. Dogs and cats were not just pets to her, they were cherished members of the family. Her home was a haven for Angel, Riley, Mineu, Penny and many other fur babies over the decades, providing them with love, care, and a forever home.

In addition to her wedding photography business, Julie worked as an office manager for 30 years at dental offices in the Denver area. She also was a member of Johnstown’s Red Hats social group and a regular at Tuesday morning get-togethers with friends.

Julie was preceded in death by parents, Alton and Rebecca Randolph of New Orleans. She is survived by husband, Leo “Jim” Dowling; daughter, Laura Dowling (Chris Bailey); son, Matt Dowling (Stacey); son, Neil Dowling; and grandchildren, Carly Bishop (Jonathan), Cameron Sandell, and Tommy and Robin Dowling.

In celebration of Julie’s life, let us remember her for the passion she brought to her gardens, the beauty she captured through her lens, the love she showered upon her family and animals, and the

kindness she extended to all living beings. Though she may no longer be with us in person, her spirit will live on in the memories we shared and the love she generously bestowed upon us all.

A private memorial service will be held to honor Julie. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the NOCO Humane Society (www.nocohumane. org) or American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org) in Julie’s name.