Saratoga Springs, NY - Evelyn M. Dwyer entered into eternal rest on Friday, May 3, 2013 at home with family around her, following a brief illness. Born Evelyn Marie Dowen on May 6, 1929 to the late Joseph Henry and Effie Belle (Bennett) Dowen. She was one of 14 brothers and sisters and a lifelong resident of Saratoga Springs. Evelyn was a homemaker who worked as a private home health aide until she was 80 years old. She enjoyed old westerns, garage sales, and was a great negotiator. She was a gentle, kind person who always saw the best in people. Her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren are all better people for having known her. Evelyn was a member of the Rebekah Lodge in Lake Luzerne for many years. She was also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, VFW and American Legion Ladies Auxillaries and active with a Friday morning bowling league for the last 15 years. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by five sisters, Agnes Bishop, Dorothy Blackwood, Helen Fish, Eleanor Chase, Mary Myers and three brothers Joseph, James and Eugene Dowen. Survivors include her husband of over 65 years, Joseph Dwyer and their six children, Edward (Mary), Joseph Jr. (Kim), Patrick, Kathleen Plue, Christine Wildy (Warren), and John (Ginny); 17 grandchildren; 23 great grandchildren 3 great great grandchildren; four brothers, Robert Dowen, Elijah Dowen, Harold Dowen, Donald Dowen and one sister, Penny Myers. With a family of 14 she is survived by over 75 neices and nephews. Her best friend for over 50 years, Eleanor DeGrasse and her family, were very special to her. There will be no calling hours. Graveside services will be conducted at1pm Monday, May 13, 2013 at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Road, Schuylerville. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in her memory to the Salvation Army, 27 Woodlawn Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Arrangements have been entrusted to the William J. Burke and Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Home of 628 North Broadway (584-5373). Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.