FRANCIS D. DOWLING, of Grainton, Nebraska, passed away February 8, 2026, at Ogallala Community Hospital.
Francis was born June 15, 1945, in Randolph, Nebraska, to Kenneth and Dorothy (Whalen) Dowling. He grew up in the rural Nebraska community and graduated from Allan High School.
On September 24, 1964, Francis married Diann Hangman. Their lives were blessed with five children. The couple made their home in the Laurel area until 1983, when they relocated to Grainton. Francis worked in agriculture his entire life, including several years at the elevator.
Francis was in his element when he was riding in his John Deere 4020. He was an excellent mechanic and could fix most anything. Francis also liked fishing and more than a few fishing stories were acquired over the years. He had a smile that perfectly matched his ornery personality.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Diann Dowling (2016); two brothers, Ronnie and Rayme Dowling; and a brother-in-law, Dick McCoy.
Survivors include his children, Michael (Terri) Dowling of Sutherland, Barbara (David) Gartrell of Paxton, Penny Elliott of Benkelman, Mark Dowling of Wynot, and Theresa Goodman of Paxton; 21 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren; sisters, Peggy McCoy, Cathy Pond, and Sandy (Steve) Sullivan all of Allan, Cheri (Merle) Krusemark of Wakefield; brother, Rick (Mikki) Dowling of Hartington; sisters-in-law, Gloria Dowling of Allan, Darlene Dowling of Joplin, MO; and many many other relatives and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held Monday, February 23, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Central Time at the Wallace Community Hall, with Pastor Matt Peyton officiating. Inurnment will be July 31, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. at the South Creek Calvary Cemetery at Ponca, NE with Pastor Charity Forbes Potter officiating.
A memorial has been established for later designation. Condolences may be shared at bullocklongfuneralhome.com, where the services will be streamed live.