Fayne Arthur McDowell, Colonel, USAF (Ret), 74, passed away on August 29, 2021. He was born on August 21 1947 to Elmer Fayne and Zella Elizabeth McDowell in Longview, TX. Following graduation from Longview’s Pine Tree High school, Fayne joined the Army and served as a Warrant Office in Vietnam as a helicopter pilot of Huey and Cobra helicopters, during which time he was wounded. After returning from Vietnam, Fayne completed his degree at the University of Texas and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Air Force as a Transportation Officer, where he rose through the ranks to Colonel. After serving his country proudly for 35 years, he retired in 2005 to Colorado Springs, CO.
During his years of service he completed a Masters degree from Central Michigan University and graduated from in-resident schools at the Air Force Squadron Officer School, the US Army Command and General Staff College and the Air Force Air War College. He served in multiple locations including Fort Hood TX, Dover AFB DE, Howard AB, Panama, Osan AB, Korea, Scott AFB IL, Little Rock AFB AR, Hickam AFB HI, Nellis AFB NV and Warner-Robins AFB GA. During the First Gulf War he deployed to Kuwait. During these assignments his positions included Squadron Commander, Logistics Group Commander and Director of Aerial Port Operations with the US Air Force Reserve.
While in the military, Fayne received the following awards: The Defense Meritorious Service Medal w 1 device, The Air Force Meritorious Service Medal w/ 3 devices, Air Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal w/ 2 devices, Joint Service Achievement Medal as well as the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal and the Korea and Vietnam defense Medals.
After retiring, he started a new chapter in Colorado Springs with his wife Nicky on The Wildfire Ranch, their pride and joy. He enjoyed his retirement by working on the ranch, raising Texas Longhorn cattle, enjoying their horses, and chickens as well as growing a small vineyard and making wine. He managed to have a garden every year with bountiful fruits and vegetables. They also traveled extensively to the National Parks, Cattle Shows, wineries and Sheepdog trials. He loved spending time with friends and family.
Fayne is survived by his loving wife, Nicola Adams; his daughter, Kaitlan; son Cullen and his wife Rebecca McDowell; granddaughters Bristol, McKenzie, and Avery McDowell; his brother David and wife Paula McDowell of Forney TX, and sister, Sharon and husband Kenneth Autry of Kilgore, TX; his stepson Jared Adams, his wife Shari and their children Jameson, Jordyn and Jaxson. Also many nieces, nephews, cousins and grand-relatives.
A memorial service is planned for September 24, 2021 at 2 PM at the Shrine of Remembrance funeral home in Colorado Springs CO. A Celebration of Life is planned for after the memorial service near his home in Colorado Springs.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a charity of your choosing in Fayne’s name.
Craig and Teri Adair
6 Sep 2021You are all in our thoughts and prayers
We loved Fayne and thought the world of him.
Christi Brantley
6 Sep 2021My prayers and love are with aunt Nikki and the family. Uncle Fayne was an amazing man who was loved and will be missed dearly.
Gloria Parks
6 Sep 2021So sorry to hear about Fayne Arthur. We had great fun as kids together during summer vacations and at our grandparent’s house. We will miss him. Much love to his family
Larry Stephens
8 Sep 2021I first met Fayne while we were both assigned to the 834th Airlift Division, Hickam AFB, HI, in 1983, and I immediately liked and respected him immensely. I learned about his Army service as a warrant officer helo pilot, but he never mentioned having been wounded. He also told me about how he made sure to check the helo’s “angel nut”, before each mission – it was the single piece of hardware keeping the helo blades attached to the helicopter. We “ran into” each other periodically throughout our Air Force careers but were never really able to spend time to “catch up”. I regret those missed opportunities very, very much indeed. Rest easy, my friend and brother. Thank you for your service to our country and your commitment to freedom, truth and justice. An honorable life led is never, ever wasted and indeed serves as a beacon to others that we may all aspire to live similarly. May our Heavenly Father bless and keep you throughout eternity.
Sal
11 Sep 2021Col McDowell was my commander at Nellis. I remember him being a great leader who sincerely cared for his people. My condolences to the family.
CMSgt (ret) Tony D. James
12 Sep 2021My wife, Jane, and I would like to offer our condolences to the family of Fayne McDowell. I served under Colonel McDowell at Little Rock AFB, AR prior to my retirement from the 314th Transportation Squadron in April 1996. I can say without a doubt that he was the best Commander I had the privilege of serving under. His top priority was always for the safety and care of those under his command. He was a true and dedicated soldier. Rest in peace, my friend!
Terry M. Sunderland MSgt, USAF (ret)
14 Sep 2021My condolences to the McDowell family. I was deeply saddened to hear of your loss. Fayne was my last Squadron Commander that I served under before my retirement from the USAF. I always considered him as one of the best Officers that I served under during my career. I saluted him then with a high degree of respect and I salute him even now. I will keep you all in my prayers. May God comfort and bless each one of you through this difficult time.
John Perry
21 Sep 2021My condolences. Thank you for your service sir. May you Rest In Peace.
JOE R HAMILTON
23 Sep 2021The Hamilton family honors our cousin, Fayne’s legacy and memory. He lived a good life and will be missed.