Dowdle, Alda T. (nee Martinelli) Age 89. Born to Eternal Life Friday, March 12, 2010. Beloved wife of the late William R. Dear mother of Michael (Judy), Richard (Kris), James (Carolyn), Mary, Geralyn (Michael) Coffman and David (Cristy Lytle). Loving grandmother of Kami Dowdle, Jennifer (Darren) Becker, Hailey (Joe) Boland, Anthony Dowdle, Michael Zillgitt, Jessica (Kurt) Jaeger, Jason Hartman, Chelsea (Peter) Sachs and Cameron Coffman along with six great-grandchildren. Further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Alda was born in Caspian, Michigan on February 12, 1921 and was raised at St. Rose’s Orphanage in Milwaukee by the Daughters of Charity. She graduated from Messmer High School in 1939. She was very active at St. Philip Neri Church and School including having been a past President of the Christian Mothers. She was a very active parent in the PTA while her children attended Milwaukee Public Schools. Alda gave of her time and herself as a volunteer at the Milwaukee Public Library by reading to children. She sang with the Harmony Singers for many years. One of her other favorite pastimes was ballroom and square dancing. Alda had a wonderful sense of humor, loved sharing her jokes and had a genuine respect for everyone she came in contact with throughout her life. Special thanks to Dr. Jane Hawes and her staff along with Luther Manor and their wonderful staff for making her last years safe, active and fulfilling. Private Services. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Luther Manor Foundation, 4545 N 92nd St, Milwaukee, WI, 53225 would be appreciated.