Michael Patrick Dowling

Michael Patrick Dowling, 49, of Cullowhee, NC passed away on Thursday, May 20, 2021 after a long battle with multiple health issues.  He was born in Toledo, OH and later moved to St. Petersburg, FL where he spent most of his life.  He received his education at Holy Family, Rivera, and Northeast High School.  Michael then went on to earn his culinary arts degree. Michael was a talented chef working in various styles of restaurants.  He was passionate about food, cooking and loved using his craft to create new dishes. Along with his passion and interest for food, he also enjoyed baseball, especially the Tampa Bay Rays, music, bike riding, and skateboarding. Michael enjoyed all types of movies including Marvel, Kung Fu, horror movies, new and old, especially those on Dr. Paul Bearer. He had a quick-witted and great sense of humor, never missing an opportunity to bring comedy to a situation.  Michael spent most of his life in St. Petersburg, FL but also lived in Chicago, IL and New Britian, CT.  His heart belonged in the mountains of North Carolina, which he loved and where he found peace. Michael was a loving husband to his wife Heather and an adoring father to his son, Michael Edmund, and to his children by marriage, Micaiah and Chris. He treasured his family and loved making them laugh. He will be forever loved and remembered by his family including his mother and stepfather Pamela and Earl Simpson, father and stepmother Larry and Denise Dowling, his sisters Maureen Dowling and Collene Watson (Dowling), her husband Doug Watson and their children Addison and Thea. He will also be cherished in the hearts of his extended family, friends and those who crossed his path. The family wishes to thank all of his friends that helped along his journey, especially Ed and Sara, Heath, Chris and Ed N. A special thank you to all of his supportive relatives whom helped in many ways during his final years. In lieu of flowers, you may consider a donation to an account for his son, Michael Edmund. Please contact Heather or Maureen for details. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a celebration of Michael’s life will be scheduled at a future date.