Grace Lee Mendez

Grace Lee Mendez (Dowell) the only daughter of John and Mary Dowell, beloved sister to Robert (deceased), Norm, and Michael (deceased) went home to the Lord on February 21, 2023, surrounded by her family.

Grace was born in Pontiac Michigan and attended South Lyon High School. Shortly after graduation she traveled to Topeka, Kansas to visit a friend. It was during this trip she met the love of her life, Luis (deceased) and six weeks later they married. Shortly after, they moved to Indiana and started their family. Grace and Luis welcomed their son Vincent (deceased), and their three daughters Lori (husband David Grable), Michelle, and Denise (husband Christian Gamboa).  The Mendez family grew to include 7 grandchildren: Stephanie (deceased), Karissa, Cameron, Brandon, Kahla, Cassidy, and Mackenzie; followed by 5 great grandchildren Jaeden, Allona, CJ, Kian, and Cayden.

Grace worked for 30 years at Herff Jones as a press operator in their fine papers division. In her free time Grace loved to read, watch movies, spending time with her grandchildren, and always looked forward to large family gatherings with her nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held at St. Matthew Catholic church located at 4100 E 56th St, Indianapolis, IN 46220 on Monday February 27 at 10:00 am and funeral mass to follow at 12 noon. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Franciscan Hospice or Franciscan Hospice House.

The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the Franciscan Hospice Team who cared for Grace in her final days: nurses Liz, Jean, and Bonnie for their compassionate care; and to Chaplain Cathy for her ministry of presence.

Grace will be interred next to her husband, Luis at the Marion National Cemetery in Marion, Indiana.