James "Barry" Dowling

James Barry Dowling was born July 17, 1944, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, to James Wesley and Myrtle Eileen (Moir) Dowling. He passed away on June 4, 2016, in Whittier, California, at the age of 71.



Barry, as he was known, moved from Canada to Whittier, California, at the age of 6. He grew up and attended school there, graduating from Whittier High School. He continued his education at Cerritos College and San Diego State, earning a Bachelors Degree in Social Welfare.



After graduating from college, Barry responded to a call to serve in the US Army. He was stationed in San Francisco where he served as chauffeur to a General. Following his honorable discharge in 1970, he met the love of his life, Celeste Marie Battista. They were married on August 7, 1971, in Montebello, California, and made their home in Whittier. In 1976 they moved to La Habra, California, where they have lived ever since.



Mr. Dowling worked for the California Youth Authority. He began as a Group Supervisor at Fred C. Nelles Youth Correctional Facility in Whittier. He loved his job, and he loved the youth. He gave them 110% and was rewarded with greater responsibility. At the time of his retirement, Barry was serving as Superintendant for the Youth Authority.



Not one to be idle, Barry immediately got involved in civic service in the city of La Habra, California. He was appointed to several committees, but especially enjoyed those focusing on Youth Services. Known and respected for time at Fred C. Nelles, Mr. Dowling was also recruited to represent the Youth Authority when film crews came to shoot at the closed facility.



Golfing, kayaking and classic cars were among Barrys favorite past times. If there was a car show nearby, he would be there. He was a past member of the Mustang Club, and served as a Marshall at the Westridge Golf.



Barry loved his family dearly. His wife considers him her best friend and loved his sense of humor. He also enjoyed a great relationship with each of his children, Keith and Sarah. When Keith was young, Barry was involved with him in the Cub Scouts and Indian Guides. Barry will be remembered as a kind, loving and gentle man who was an outgoing friend to all. He leaves an example of dedicated and passionate service in all that he undertook.



He leaves behind his loving wife, Celeste; his children, Keith and Sarah; and his sister, Gail Mehan.



Viewing will take place from 5-7pm on Friday, June 10, 2016, at White Emerson Mortuary, 13304 E. Philadelphia St., Whittier, CA 90601. A vigil service will immediately follow at 7pm. Mass will be celebrated at 12noon on Monday, June 13, 2016, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, 900 W. La Habra Blvd., La Habra, CA 90631. Interment will take place at Rose Hills Memorial Park in Whittier.