SEPTEMBER 2, 1928 – OCTOBER 2, 2022
Our beloved father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend, Joseph William Downey, passed away peacefully in his home with family on Sunday, October 2, 2022, in his 95th year.
He is survived by his children, Reverend Michael Downey, Richard (Margaret), Jo Ann, Robert (June), Jeff (Anita), Joe (Jan); his grandchildren Tom, Karen, Stephen (Julie-Anne), Leanne (Chris), Jill, Mike (Heidi), Dan (Emma), Jaime, Christie, Megan, Emily; his great-grandchildren, Ayla, Elise, Elijah, Evelyn, Sofia, and Madison. He is also survived by half-siblings Michael (Gisele), Diane (Nelo), Don (Debbie), Walter, Marie and Susan. Joe was predeceased by his loving wife and soulmate of 71 years, Shirley, daughter Kathy, mother Helen, and son-in-law Gary Frolander.
Together Mom and Dad were active members of St. Clement’s Church where they had a lasting impact on the community, singing in the Resurrection Choir and supporting many on the Bereavement Committee. Working for Bell Canada for 41 years, Dad is best known for his wisdom, storytelling, and his ability to fix anything and everything. Together, Mom and Dad lived a life full of laughter where they enjoyed travelling, playing bridge, euchre, and square dancing. Everyone was always welcome at Dolph Street.
Dad’s love for baseball and the Blue Jays will live on in his memory. Go Jays go! Cremation has taken place. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, October 15, at 1:00pm at St. Clement’s Roman Catholic Church in Cambridge with a reception to follow in the church basement. Memorial donations to Innisfree Hospice would be greatly appreciated.
Arrangements entrusted to Barthel Funeral Home
