Richard John O'Dowd's Obituary
Richard J. O'Dowd, 95, passed away February 1, 2022.
He was born in Manchester, New Hampshire in 1926 to the late Richard M. and Grace Marion (Corning) O'Dowd. He was raised in Manchester and graduated from Manchester Central High School where he was a talented baseball and hockey player. Upon graduation he declined an offer of signing with the American League Boston Red Sox, and enlisted in the Marine Corps. After basic training, Rich was assigned primarily with the 5th Marine Division and deployed in the South Pacific and Japan. After his honorable discharge he returned to Manchester, working in the Pari-Mutuel Racing Industry at Rockingham Park.
He then attended Norwich University where he was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon and played football and baseball. He graduated and was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant. He then returned Marine Corps. When his mandatory service requirement was satisfied, he then returned to civilian life.
Returning to N.H. Rich became more invested in the racing industry. His racing career included time at New England and Florida facilities especially Green Mountain Racetrack in Pownal, Vermont for 17 years as Director of Mutuels. In 1980 he accepted the position of Director of Mutuels at Northfield Park outside Cleveland, Ohio and later at Beulah Park Columbus, Ohio where he stayed until retiring in 1993.
Being the avid ballplayer and golfer that he was, Rich, played Tournament Softball with the Huff-N-Puffers and enjoyed golf into his 80’s.
Rich was preceded in death by his sister Norma J. Hartnett and granddaughter Joslin (Mayhew) Galusha.
Survivors include beloved wife Laurie of Strongsville OH, children R. Mac of Sunbury, OH, Douglas of Bennington, VT, Robin (Lyle) of Spartanburg, SC, Cathleen of Hudson, NH, William (Cindy) of Northfield, OH, David of Northfield, OH, and Allison (Al) of Valley City, OH. Thirteen grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated to Hospice Services of Southwest General Strongsville, OH.
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