Candidate for Congress Gary McDowell

A native of the Upper Peninsula, Gary McDowell grew up on the family farm in Rudyard, the oldest of 10 children. He graduated from Rudyard High School and attended Lake Superior State College.

For over 20 years, Gary has served as Treasurer of McDowell Hay, Inc., a 1,000-acre hay farming and distribution company in Rudyard that he owns with his brother. He also worked for more than 3 decades as a driver for United Parcel Service before retiring in 2003.

Throughout his career, Gary has sought opportunities in public service to improve the quality of life of the community. He served on the Chippewa County Board of Commissioners for 22 years, including four as board chairman, before being elected to the Michigan House of Representatives in 2004. He serves on numerous local boards and belongs to several area organizations, including the Chippewa County Economic Development Corporation, the Rudyard Lions Club, the Sault Area Chamber of Commerce, the Chippewa County Farm Bureau and the Sault Elks Club.

Gary and his wife, Carrie, are members of the Rudyard First United Presbyterian Church and have three daughters; Alivia, Emily and Rochelle.