June 28, 1946 - December 26, 2023
Susan Meister Dowd, age 77, peacefully passed away on December 26th, 2023, at her home in Broomfield Colorado. She was preceded in death by her parents, Glenn and Mary Helen (Whetstone) Meister, her beloved husband Robert Earl Dowd, and her grandson Benjamin Pickett.
Susan is survived by her devoted brother Jack (Lynn) Meister, caring sister Christine (Richard) Roost, beloved niece Melissa (Tim) Meister-Brennan, nephew Kurt (Angie) Meister, loving daughters Erin Dowd (Brian Strawn) and Molly Pickett, son-in-law Brandon Pickett, and grandchildren Amelia (Mimi) Pickett and Finnigan Pickett.
Born and raised in Keokuk, Iowa, Susan graduated from Keokuk Senior High School in 1964. Throughout her life, she held various jobs, with her favorite being at the family business, Meister Music, where she managed and ordered records. It was at the Iowa Army Ammunition Plant in the late '60s where she crossed paths with her future husband, Robert. They exchanged vows on September 3, 1972, at Saint Paul's United Church of Christ and together owned and operated the Bob Inn in Birmingham, Iowa.
Susan's heart was captivated by the allure of the Rocky Mountains from a young age. A summer spent in Estes Park at the age of 21, working at the Swiss Village, left an indelible mark on her. Inspired by the grandeur of the mountains, Susan and Robert made the life-changing decision to relocate to Colorado in 1985. Broomfield, Colorado became their home, where they raised their family and fulfilled her dream of visiting Estes Park as often as her heart desired.
A devoted volunteer for the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps, she enthusiastically supported her daughters in their marching endeavors. She greatly enjoyed the pageantry and supporting the kids, earning her the affectionate nickname 'Mama Dowd' from many.
Known for her nurturing spirit, Susan was a natural caregiver who showered her family and friends with fierce love and devotion. Her absence leaves a void that will be deeply felt by all who were fortunate enough to know her. Susan's memory will be cherished, and the impact of her warm presence will endure.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute. Contributions can be submitted online at [Sarah Cannon Fund] https://sarahcannon.com/about/sarah-cannon-fund.dot Your generosity will honor her memory and support ongoing efforts in the fight against cancer.
A celebration of Susan Meister Dowd's life will be held In Keokuk, Iowa to honor her memory. Details will be shared with family and friends in the coming months.
As we remember Susan's life, let us be inspired by her unwavering love, humor and kindness. In the tapestry of our memories, her legacy will forever weave threads of warmth, compassion, and resilience.
