David Leo Stowman

David Leo Stowman took his final breath the night of August 21, 2026, at Walter Reed Hospital, surrounded by his family after a long battle with several preexisting lung conditions. He was 69 years old.

David was born on August 7, 1957, on a military base in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, alongside his twin brother, Donald, to Father Donald and Mother Dana Stowman. He grew up with his older sister, Patti, and as military brats they moved more than eight times throughout his childhood. Notably sweet as a boy who later became a rebellious teenager with change being his only constant. He enlisted in the United States Navy, himself, at just 17 years old.

David served his country for twenty tough years, retiring (AME1). Among his many memories of military life, his time stationed in Antarctica remained one of his favorites. Also, during those years, he married twice, became a father, and later a grandfather. Even after retirement, he remained deeply patriotic and was outspoken in support of his fellow service members.

Following his military career, David dedicated more than two decades to the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers in Hollywood, Maryland, where he worked as a groundskeeper. It was there that he became smitten with Cecilia. And it was her unwavering love, devotion, and gentle strength that truly became one of the greatest blessings of his life.

Few things David loved more than motorcycles. Riding with fellow members of the All American H.O.G. Chapter brought him immeasurable joy. Many days he spent engine roaring, sun on his face, wind in his hair, thousands of miles traveled. In later years, as health declined, he traded long motorcycle rides for leisurely drives in his Corvette, afternoons on the boat, family day trips, and quiet evenings overlooking the creek… You could almost always find him with a cup of coffee—and he never passed up the chance to satisfy his legendary sweet tooth from any nearby candy bowl.

To those who only knew him casually, David’s stubbornness, sarcasm, and gruff exterior could make him seem intimidating. But those fortunate enough to know him personally, saw a man whose heart softened with time. A man who always showed up for the people he loved. Despite his own shortcomings and personal struggles, he remained steadfast to his family which he forged in love as well as blood. His life stands as a reminder that simply showing up for those we love is one of the greatest legacies one can leave behind.

Shortly before his passing, while on a family vacation, David shared with his son-in-law, Timmy, that he knew his days were numbered… He also shared that he had no regrets and he had lived life on his terms. He had found peace with that.

There is hope those words now offer a sense of comfort to those who loved him.

David is survived by his loving partner of 23 years, Cecilia; his beloved daughter, Kori, and son-in-law, Timothy; his sons, David Nathan, Jake, and Justin, Richie, Wesley, and Kenny; his sister, Patti; his twin brother, Donald; more than thirteen cherished grandchildren and many more in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and colleagues.

David will be missed greatly, his absence echoing indefinitely.

The family will receive friends on Friday, September 4, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. with prayers recited at 7:00 PM at Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, Leonardtown, MD. A funeral service will take place Saturday, September 5, 2026, at 10:00 AM in the funeral home chapel. Interment is private.

In lieu of flowers condolences can be made to Hollywood Volunteer Rescue Squad and Guide Dogs of Americal- Tender Loving Canines.

Condolences may be made to the family at www.mgfh.com.

Arrangements provided by the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home and Cremation Services, P.A., Leonardtown, MD.