John F. Downing
John F. Downing, 85, of Winamac, passed away at 2:30 p.m., Wednesday, June 19, at Northwest Health in LaPorte.
Born on Feb. 1, 1939, in Star City, he was the son of the late Harold and Margaret (Weaver) Downing.
He was a 1957 Pulaski High School graduate.
He was a U.S. Army veteran.
On July 17, 1965, he married Susan J. (Reutebuch) Downing. She preceded him in death on Oct. 5, 2020.
John was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Pulaski. He was a lifelong farmer and worked for Rose Acre Farms.
He enjoyed driving to and through farm fields, going out to eat, driving to check up on family, and trips to visit somewhere old to new with the intent of good conversation to follow. He also enjoyed a nice warm sunny day, watching birds and squirrels, playing basketball with his kids and grandchildren, watching a good basketball or football game, and watching Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy. He was known for his warmth and glow to those he met and knew which was a special gift to those who loved him.
Survivors include his brother, Ken Downing [Dianne] of Burrows; children: Gina Baker [Steve] of Winamac, Mitch Downing [Robin] of Winamac, Barb Thompson [Dave] of Winamac and John J. Downing [Denise] of Winamac; grandchildren: Levi Baker, Le Baker, Keith Thompson, John R. Downing, Kurt Thompson, Bradon Downing, Anna Downing, Emily Downing, Cy Thompson; great-grandchildren: Madison Baker, Katilyn Baker, Coltin Downing, Michael Baker and Kyle Thompson.
He was also preceded in death by grandson, Kyle Downing; sister, Rosanna Doyle; and brother, Robert Downing.
Visitation was from 1 to 4 p.m., Sunday, June 23, at Rans Funeral Homes & Crematory, Harrison Chapel, 304 S. Chicago St., Royal Center where there was also a scripture service at 12:45 p.m.
A Mass of Christian Burial was at 10 a.m., Monday, June 24, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Pulaski.
Burial with military rites will follow at St. Joseph West Catholic Cemetery.
Memorial contributions can be made to the church in John’s memory.
John’s online guestbook is available and condolences can be shared with the family at www.ransfuneralhomes.com.
(Pulaski County Journal — June 26, 2024)