Francis D. Dowling

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 Dowling. Their lives were blessed with five children. The couple made their home in the Allan 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 that he 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 Elliot of Moses Lake, WA, and Mark Dowling of Wyanet, Theresa Goodman of Paxton; 21 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren; sisters, Peggy McCoy of Allan, Cheri (Merle) Krusemark of Wakefield, Kathy Pond, and Sandy (Steve) Sullivan, all of Allan; brother, Rick (Mikki) Dowling of Hartington; sisters-in-law, Gloria Dowling of Allan and Darlene Dowling of Joplin, MO; and many other relatives and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. CT at the Wallace Community Hall, with Pastor Matt Peyton officiating. A reception will follow at the Legion Hall in Wallace. Inurnment will be at South Creek Calvary Cemetery, Ponca, NE, on July 31, 2026, at 3 p.m. CT.

A memorial has been established for later designation. Condolences may be shared at bullocklongfuneralhome.com, where the services will be streamed live.

Bullock-Long Funeral Home of Grant is in charge of arrangements.