John R. Downing

John R. Downing, 73 and a long time Westford resident passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on March 30, 2019 at the Lahey Clinic in Burlington. He was the husband of Mary P. Downing.

Born in Norwich, CT on May 11, 1945, John was a son of the late Ernest and Catherine (Hasler) Downing. After completing his studies, John went on to enlist in the United States Navy and honorably serve his country during Viet Nam. John and Mary began their love story at the age of 17. The high school sweethearts eventually married and settled in Westford where they raised children of their own.

Until his retirement, John worked as a mechanic for Anheuser Busch in Merrimack, NH. He enjoyed traveling, politics, photography and he was also an avid reader. He had a thirst for knowledge and an uncanny knack for understanding just about anything. Family, however, was John's largest accomplishment and source of pride. He will be remembered for his great conversations, humor and companionship.

In addition to his wife, Mary, John is loving survived by his children; Lauren Braudis and her spouse Peter of Groton; John R. Downing, Jr. and his spouse Rattana of Dracut and Jennifer Wiggin and her spouse Taylor of Goffstown, NH. His grandchildren; Bailey and P. Riley Braudis and Kaylee and Chloe Wiggin. He is further survived by his sister, Kathy Downing of Quincy.

It being John's wish, services will be private.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in John's name to:
New England Donor Services
60 First Avenue
Waltham, MA 02451

From Mary Downing:

John was my walking book of knowledge. He was always ready to answer any questions I had about any topic. I love this about him. I enjoyed his knowing and understanding about things in general. He has been my boyfriend, love and companion since I met him at the age of 15.

He loved to read all types of books. He also kept current with the news and political environment. He had a passion for what was good and best for this country of ours both politically and environmentally.

He enjoyed chaperoning our children' field trips with me and would work it into his work schedule or vacations. He loved being there for them.
He was a wonderful Dad helping with diapers, and would help to get our children ready for things. He would also go to their doctor appointments and was ready to sooth them whatever their fears. He left the bedtime reading to me, but would love taking them to the bookstore and library for their supply of books.
Our children grew to enjoy his companionship and love.

He was my rock and steadfast friend and companion. Always ready to offer his support and love.
I loved him since we were young. I met him when he was 17. He was so handsome and attractive in every way and I was proud to have him by my side.
Yes, we butted heads at times and had differences, yet I respected and enjoyed his views of things which helped me to be a better person and have a better understanding of this world.

I cherished our times together. He will be so sadly missed by me and our three children.