Obituary of Herbert L. Dowling

Dowling- Herbert L. 90 of Treasure Island passed away Tuesday November 15, 2005 at his home. Born in Douglas Georgia, he came here in the 1940's from Washington D.C. A pioneer resident and business owner in the City of Treasure Island, he started Treasure Islands "Golden Mile" when he built its first concrete motel "The Sands" in 1947. In 1957, he designed and built "The Surf" motel. Its artistic design was lauded in travel magazines throughout the world. As the tourist industry began to develop, Mr. Dowling saw the need to develop a shopping area for the visitors to Treasure Island and in the 1950's, he purchased 22 struggling stores in the downtown business area to provide commerce potential for his guests. He served as mayor of Treasure Island from 1954-55. During his tenure, he was innovative in leading the community through incorporation with the adjacent towns of Sunset Beach, Boca Ciega and Sunshine Beach to form the current City of Treasure Island. He founded the Civitan Club of Treasure Island and was a former member of Pasadena Community Church, St. Petersburg and Church by the Sea, Madeira Beach. A 32nd degree Mason, he was a member of the Gulf Beach Masonic Lodge, Scottish Rite Bodies and Egypt Temple Shrine, Tampa. He was the founder of the Holiday Isles Civitan Club and was a charter member of the Treasure Island Hotel/Motel Association. He enjoyed golfing and fishing. Survivors include three sons; Richard of Treasure Island, Robert and James of St. Petersburg; a daughter Mary Veverka of Hudson; five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. David C. Gross Funeral Homes and Cremation Center, Central Avenue Chapel, St. Petersburg is serving the family. Funeral services will be 11AM Saturday, November 19, 2005 at David C. Gross Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. C. Curtis Hess, officiating. Interment will follow in Royal Palm Cemetery-South. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to service. Memorial contributions can be made to the Shriners Crippled Childrens Hospital, Tampa. Service Information