As an infant, Erin was nicknamed “Stormy” because her birthdate, January 16, 1991, marked the eve of Desert Storm, and because on that day scattered tornadoes hit the town of Lake Jackson, Texas where she was born.  Indeed, Erin has always been a force of nature.  She’s had more than enough energy, imagination and sass to keep things interesting.

     Erin, a lifelong extrovert, sought out friendships with those who shared her quest for novelty, adventure and fun.  At the same time, Erin was sensitive and empathetic.  She was fiercely loyal to those closest to her and loved them enthusiastically.  She carried sentimental attachments to people, pets (she was one of the best dog moms), and memories.  Her playful and fashion-forward sense of style complemented her big personality and she was unapologetic for her unique spirit.

     As a natural athlete (with a competitive streak), Erin enjoyed snowboarding, scuba diving, hiking, yoga, squash and soccer.  She had an artistic eye for composition whether she was pulling together an outfit, decorating her home, or formulating the best shot for a photo during her many travels.  Much of her free time, though, was spent caring for her pets.  Erin nurtured them with adoring care (and they adored her right back).  Nala, her first beloved dog, passed a few months before Erin; Sindri, the big cat with an attitude, passed several years ago; and Santino, a goofy three year old pup, is now adjusting to life without his favorite person.  All three were both muses and stabilizing forces in her life.

     Over her lifetime, Erin moved across the country with some frequency, but lived most of her adult life in Pittsburgh. One of her proudest moments was graduating from Chatham University with a B.S. in Biochemistry.   At Chatham Erin explored her many academic interests by conducting research, interning at the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition, and founding the Pre-Law Club.  Since then, she worked in corporate sales where her charming personality, sparkling eyes, warm smile and, most importantly, her innate tenacity, served her well.

     Erin leaves behind her parents, Joe and Cathy Dowd; her sister, Taylor Dowd; her brother-in-law, Andrew Treske; and many uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends.  She was predeceased by her grandparents, Lon and Eula McKinnon, and Frank and Pauline Dowd.

     We will always have a hole in our hearts from her passing, but we pray that our enduring love and thousands of beautiful memories will carry us forward.  How lucky we are to have had her in the center of our lives for 32 years.

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