William L. Downing

Downing, William L. Age 93, of Falcon Heights, MN, formerly of Des Moines, IA, Iowa City, IA, Sasebo, Japan, Jamestown, ND, Palma de Mallorca, Spain, and life-long resident of Wabana Lake, MN. World War II hero, scientist, professor, environmental commissioner, author, and lover and protector of lakes and natural ecosystems. He was gregarious, well-informed, inquisitive, witty, kind, and interested in others. He was well liked and is fondly remembered by those who knew him. He lost his wife of 60 years (Betsy Downing) in 2006. He is survived by his daughter Deborah (Philip) Gelbach; his son John (Marcia) Downing; his daughter Elizabeth (George) Colburn; four granddaughters; and three great-grandsons. Services will be held August 29, 3 pm, at Unity Church, 733 Portland Ave, St. Paul, MN. Memorials preferred (please inquire at wldmemorial@gmail.com).

Published on August 2, 2015