Keith James Dowd, 65, born May 14, 1959, passed on March 15, 2025. He was a beloved husband, father, father-in-law, Pop-pop, uncle, cousin, and friend.
Keith was the oldest son to James and Lorraine Dowd. He attended Shawnee Mission South High School (class of 1977) during which he had the luck to meet Stephanie Ireland, who became his loving and dedicated wife of 43 years. She hung with him through thick and thin and every one of his hare-brained schemes. He studied at Emporia State University where he earned his bachelor’s and the nickname “Baron.” Their daughters, Bailey and Sydney, joined for the ride and brought him immense joy and pride. He was also happy to expand the family by adding two son-in-laws, Lawrence Scharpf and Ricky Hernandez, whom he was endlessly proud of as well. The cherry on top of his sundae was the addition of his beloved granddaughter, Talulla, with whom he shared many an ice cream cone, a joke, and a tiny hand. But we would be remiss not to mention his extended family and many friends, neighbors, and coworkers who became family.
He was many things in his life, in fact, he would often note that some would call him the “do-it-all” man. He owned his own high-end stereo store for many years, then worked his way up through various roles, building a profound career in the high-end stereo business. Those that know him considered him a huge audiophile, so in addition to being a “do-it all man,” he was also a “stereo-man.” He loved to share his passion for music in all forms, whether at a Friday night happy hour or enjoying live music at one of his many favorite venues.
He also loved to drive. Fast. His love of cars started with an old mustang with a hole in the floor ending on a high note with his dream car- a 2002 Porsche Boxster with red leather interior. He was a skilled chef and foodie who enjoyed hosting and keeping everyone well fed. Always the jokester and prankster, he was truly able to shine at the infamous white elephant Christmas parties.
From an early age, Keith showed an affinity for art and creativity. Always a man with a project, his talents ranged from pen and ink sketches and homemade cards, to many a DIY home improvement project.
Beneath his funny disposition, he was a caring guy who had his own unique ways of making you feel special. He was always ready to lend an ear, give advice, and of course… share an opinion.
Besides the pride he had for his daughters and wife, he was proud of the Dowd family and his Irish heritage. He was a dedicated attendee and host of the annual Father Regis Memorial Golf Tournament. He also declared St. Patrick’s Day as his favorite holiday, and always made sure to take the day off to celebrate.
He loved good cigars, Guinness, New England IPAs, gin and tonics, negronis, carrot cake, Kansas City BBQ, spicy food and even spicier jokes. He enjoyed rooting for the Red Sox, sharing tiny hands, watching Formula One racing, and collecting Autoweek and Audiophile magazines. An experienced traveler, his favorite places were both near and far, from Meigs point at Hammonasset to the towns of Clifden, Dingle, and Doolan in Ireland. In his words- the best things in life are good food, good music, and good company.
He loved his family and friends generously. He leaves us a legacy of wonderful traditions and memories. He was a good person who will be remembered for making people laugh. We love him to no end.
A special thanks to his Vanderbilt care team, especially Dr. Ryan Merrell, whom Keith trusted and enjoyed talking all things beer, music and Ireland with. Another special thanks to those at Alive Hospice, specifically Crystal and Ramona, who cared for him in his final days.
A celebration of his life will be held on a future date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center Neuro-Oncology Research or Alive Hospice.
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