Downing

Robert “Bob” H. Downing, 83, of Butler, passed away on Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2022, at Good Samaritan Hospice at Concordia after a long battle with dementia.

Robert was born April 15, 1939, in Mercer, and was the son of the late Walter Downing and Ella (Wise) Downing-Johnston. He was also preceded in death by his stepfather, Carl Johnston.

Robert graduated from Butler High School.

He had many jobs during his life. His first job was at William Morgan’s Diner. He then managed Isaly’s at Greater Butler Mart, before he moved on to Acme Food Store. Robert also managed the lounge at Tanglewood, worked at Kennametal, and finally spent 35 years at the Days Inn in Butler. Bob also started his own greenhouse after being inspired by a great friend who had one, and was known by many for selling flowers at the flea market.

Bob was always the life of the party. He loved to dance really fast at weddings, which his friends gave the name “cut the rug.” He also loved to cook for his family, and was the “perfect” Christmas tree decorator.

Robert is survived by his wife, Elvajean (Thompson) Downing, with whom he spent 59 wonderful years.

He also left behind his son, Robert A. Downing; his daughter, Sherri (Tim) McCandless; his brother, Donald J. Downing; and three loving grandchildren, Tyler, Nate and Alex McCandless.

The Downing family would like to thank all of the members of Community Alliance Church in Butler, for their never-ending support and prayers, especially the ministers; all congregation members, who kept them in their prayers; the greeter, Sally Gates; and their close friends, Russ McCombs and Patti Faulk.

DOWNING — Services for Robert “Bob” H. Downing, who died Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2022, will be held privately, and arrangements are through SPENCER D. GEIBEL FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, 140 New Castle Road, Butler.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family.

Please visit www.spencerdgeibel.com.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.