SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 507
In Memory
of
William Ross Dowling
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas joins the citizens
of Houston in mourning the loss of Captain William Ross "Iron
Bill" Dowling, who died March 7, 2017, at the age of 43; and
WHEREAS, Bill Dowling was born on March 14, 1973, in
Albuquerque, New Mexico; his family later moved to Texas, and
he graduated from Klein Oak High School in Spring, Texas, in
1993; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Dowling served with distinction in the United
States Marine Corps; he provided security for United Nations
troops in Somalia, and he was stationed at several locations
around the world, including Bahrain and Saudi Arabia; he was a
highly decorated serviceman who retired from the Marines having
earned the rank of corporal; his honors included a Combat Action
Ribbon and a National Defense Service Medal; and
WHEREAS, After his military service, Bill began a
rewarding career as a firefighter; he was a member of both the
Houston and the Champions Fire Departments, and as he rose
through the ranks, he became known for choosing to work at some of
Houston's busiest fire stations; Captain Dowling demonstrated
exceptional courage and dedication in fulfilling his
responsibilities, and he lost his life as a result of injuries he
sustained in 2013 while serving and protecting the community; and
WHEREAS, A devoted family man, Bill Dowling shared 23 years
of marriage with Jacki Dowling, and their three children, Forrest,
Faith, and Foster, were a source of great pride and joy; and
WHEREAS, Iron Bill Dowling was admired for his strength and
his wise counsel, and he was known by those closest to him for his
tenderhearted nature; he was beloved throughout the community
and by his fellow firefighters, and he leaves behind memories
that will long be cherished by all who were privileged to share in
his life; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 85th
Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved
family of Captain William Ross "Iron Bill" Dowling; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for
his family as an expression of deepest sympathy from the Texas
Senate and that when the Senate adjourns this day, it do so in
memory of William Ross Dowling.
Creighton
________________________________
President of the Senate
I hereby certify that the
above Resolution was adopted by
the Senate on March 27, 2017, by a
rising vote.
________________________________
Secretary of the Senate
________________________________
Member, Texas Senate