David Dexter Dow

David Dexter Dow of Hartland, VT, passed away on June 20, 2026, at the age of 97 at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, surrounded by family. A lifelong resident of Hartland, David was born April 18, 1929, during the Great Depression to Vera and Dexter Dow of Hartland, VT.

He was a proud Korean War veteran who served in Germany and was an active member of American Legion Post 48 in Hartland.

He graduated from Windsor High School with the Class of 1947, where he met his future wife, Joan P. Crouse. They married on May 2, 1953, and shared nearly 60 years together before Joan’s passing in 2013.

In 1955, they built their home in Hartland, where they raised their three daughters and lived a full, happy life.

David worked for Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co. in Windsor until his retirement in 1987, when the local plant closed. He was an immensely talented artist who hand-lettered the Hartland Volunteer Fire Department vehicles for many years.

However, no hobby brought him more joy than his passion for Studebaker automobiles. David was well known for his extensive knowledge of the marque and had been a member of the Studebaker Drivers Club since its inception in 1964. His collection includes 8 restored Studebakers, ranging from 1931 to 1964. David, Joan, and their family spent decades traveling across the country, meeting dear friends, and winning multiple trophies for his restored vehicles.

David was predeceased by his wife of nearly 60 years, Joan Crouse Dow and is survived by his sister, Pauline Ouelette of Brownsville, VT; and his daughters, Christine Buckman and her husband Shawn of Weathersfield, VT; Jacqueline Collier and her husband Kevin of Perkinsville, VT; and Jennifer Peeler of Hartland, VT. He leaves behind three grandsons, Benjamin, Elijah and Hayden. one granddaughter Nora and two great-granddaughters Eleanor and Agnes and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

A graveside celebration of life will be held at the Hartland Village Cemetery on July 3rd at 10:00am. Knight Funeral Home in Windsor has been entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed in an online guestbook at www.knightfuneralhomes.com

In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to American Legion Post 48, 9 Legion Drive, Hartland, VT 05048.