A Mother Seton School Carnival Tradition Passes to the Next Generation

After 37 years as the Mother Seton School Carnival “Pizza Man,” John Dowling proudly passes on his legendary recipe and title to his grandson, Brandon Keeney.

For almost four decades now, John Dowling has been known to members of the Mother Seton School (MSS) community and surrounding towns as “The Pizza Man.” On May 24, 2019, he passed his sauce-stained apron and legendary moniker over to the next generation. Brandon Keeney, John’s grandson, is the new carnival “Pizza Man.”

“I’m honored to be named the Pizza Man,” said Brandon. “This man is my idol and has taught me everything I know.”

John is proud to pass on his pizza-making knowledge and love for the community to his grandson. “I’ve been making pizza since the first day of the first carnival,” shared John. “It’s time for a changing of the guard, and I know Brandon will do a great job.”

It all began in 1981, when John and Kathryn, along with friends Rob and Barbara Boone, met with then-principal Sister Patricia Ann Bossle to find ways to raise money for the school. The bingos were a popular event, and John’s pizza was a draw for people. So, when they came upon the idea of hosting a carnival, it only seemed natural John would head up the pizza tent.

For his generous contributions to Mother Seton School and his years of service, John received the Seton Values Award this past October.

John expressed that it feels like the Mother Seton School Carnival has always been a part of his and his wife, Kathryn’s, life. “We have put so much of ourselves into its being, because we believe in helping MSS and we love the community. It has been a joy to be able to give back to the school for the great education our three children received here at Mother Seton.”

Brandon promises he will uphold the tradition with pride. “Over the years, I’ve observed the entire community speak so highly of him [John] and his pizza. They are big shoes to fill, but I will not let him or Mother Seton School down. I will give my all to keep the tradition alive for as long as I can.”

You can meet Brandon and taste the famous Dowling pizza at next year’s Mother Seton School Carnival, which will be held May 18-23, 2020.