Michael L. Dowling
August 10, 1959 ~ November 19, 2025
Born in:
New Haven, CT
Resided in:
Hamden, CT
Michael L. Dowling, 66, of Hamden, loving husband of Lauretta Schmidt Dowling, passed away on November 19, 2025. He was born in New Haven on August 10, 1959, a son of the late Edward and Patricia Dowling. In addition to his wife, Michael is survived by his sons, Michael (Sara), Steven, and Daniel Dowling, his adored grandchildren, Sofia and Andrew Dowling, his brothers, Edward, Paul (Debra), and David (Natasha) Dowling, sisters-in-law, Annelouise (Pam) Schmidt, Greta Heath and fiancé Steven Bourgeois, and Heidi (David) Law, nieces, Jordan and Caitlin Law, and nephews, Tommy Heath, and Jack Dowling.
After many years working as a florist with his father at Dowling Florence Flowers, a family business, he began a new life working on the railroad where he made lifelong friends. His favorite times were spent with family and friends on the road; going on bike trips and camping with the RV. As a former Green Dragon, he remained a loyal fan. Above all, he loved spending time with his loving family and his granddogs, Shea and Maxwell.
Friends are invited to visit with Michael’s family on Friday, November 28th from 4:00-8:00 p.m. in Beecher & Bennett Funeral Home, 2300 Whitney Ave., Hamden. His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, November 29th at 9:30 a.m. in St. Rita Church-St. Paul VI Parish, 1620 Whitney Ave., Hamden. Interment will follow in All Saints Cemetery. Memorial contributions in Michael’s memory may be made to American Lab Rescue, Inc., P.O. Box 215, Willington, CT 06279, www.americanlabrescue.com. To send condolences, please see his obituary at: www.beecherandbennett.com.
Services
Visitation: November 28, 2025 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Beecher & Bennett Funeral Service - Hamden
2300 Whitney Avenue
Hamden, CT 06518
203-288-0800
Mass of Christian Burial: November 29, 2025 9:30 am
St. Rita Church
1620 Whitney Avenue
Hamden, CT 06517
203-248-5513
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I am so sorry to hear of Mike’s passing. It was always a pleasure to work with him on the railroad. I wish all who love him peace in your hearts.
Laurie, I am so very sorry to hear of Mike’s passing. Such a sad time. He was such a great guy, devoted family man. Deepest sympathy to you and the whole family!
My condolences to the Dowling family, Mike was such a bright light in everyone’s life that he touched. He always found a way to connect to people. Always ready to help a friend. I’m honored that I had a chance to know you. You’ll be missed my friend.
Dear Lauretta, Michael, Steven, and Dan,
We were heartbroken to learn of Mike’s passing. It doesn’t seem possible. Even though the years have gone by and life has taken us in different directions, the memories we shared with your family remain some of the most cherished of our lives.
When our kids were growing up, we were inseparable — the hockey trips, the games, the long summer days at Paradise, and all the weekends when all the kids were together, filling our homes with laughter and chaos. Our digital photo frame flashes those moments back to us every day, and Mike is in so many of them, smiling, joking, and making everyone around him feel lighter. It’s hard to believe that someone so full of life, warmth, and quick wit is gone.
We still smile remembering one of Mike’s favorite sayings: “Never let the truth get in the way of a good story.” Bill and I repeat it to each other to this day, and it brings him right back into the room with us for a moment—laughing, teasing, and turning the ordinary into something fun.
Please know that our hearts are with all of you. We hope that in time, the sorrow will be softened by the immense love, humor, and joy that Mike brought into the world. We are grateful for the years our families shared together and for the gift of his friendship.
With love and deepest sympathy,
Lauretta, very sorry to hear of Michael’s passing.
Love Ashley and Michael and Connor Roche
Love – Lisa & Ashlee Feliconio
Cheryl and Ted Berube
Steven – I was so sad when Peggy told me about your dad! My thoughts and prayers to you, your mom and brothers!