John F. Downing

John F. Downing, 85, of Winamac, IN passed away at 2:30 p.m., Wednesday, June 19, 2024, at Northwest Health in LaPorte, IN.

 Born on February 1, 1939, in Star City, IN he was the son of the late Harold and Margaret (Weaver) Downing.

 He was a 1957 Pulaski High School graduate.

 He was Army veteran.

 On July 17, 1965, he married Susan J. (Reutebuch) Downing. She preceded him in death on October 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, brother, Robert Downing.

 Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Sunday, June 23, 2024, at Rans Funeral Homes & Crematory, Harrison Chapel, 304 S. Chicago St., Royal Center where there will also be a scripture service at 12:45 p.m.

 A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m., Monday, June 24, 2024, 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.