Richard Sidney Downing

Richard “Dick” Sidney Downing, age 87, passed away on Friday, October 14, 2022 at his home in West Branch, MI with his loving wife by his side. He was born on June 11, 1935 in Detroit, MI to Ernest and Mary (Harlow) Downing.

Dick lived in West Branch for 8 years formerly of Rose City, MI. He married Phyllis Castiglione in Independence, MO on May 30, 1976.

Dick served in the United States Marine Corps from 1953 to 1956 during the Korean War. He worked for the US Postal Service for 37 years as a Postmaster. He was retired from the postal service for 32 years. He worked at the Rose City Greenhouse for many years. Dick had a hobby farm where many reunions and parties were held.

Dick was a member of the Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Rose City and Rose City Lions Club. He enjoyed square dancing, and bowling, and was a master gardener and a leader dog sponsor.

Dick is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Phyllis Downing; children, Cheryl (Bill Babel) Downing, Jeff (Vicky) Downing, Richard Downing, and Carol Hupcik; 12 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren; sister in law, Sharon Downing; brothers in law, Paul (Jan) Castiglione, Joel (Laurel) Castiglione, and Jim (Terry) Castiglione; and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, sister, Madonna Block, Melva Baldwin, and Betty Havens; brothers, Ernest Downing Jr. and Robert Downing.

A memorial service with veteran honors will be held at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Rose City, MI on Saturday, November 5, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. Pastor Nan Dehnke will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Lions Club of Rose City and Leader Dogs for the Blind Rochester, MI

Arrangements were handled by Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch. www.steuernolmclaren.com