William E. Downey “Uncle Bill”, 76, of Michigan City, passed away peacefully at 5:25 p.m., Tuesday, September 20, 2011 in his home surrounded by his loving family.

He was born January 18, 1935 in Dravosburg, Pennsylvania, to Charles Franklin and Helen Mae (Cislo) Downey.

Survivors include his loving companion of eight years, Barbara Wolfe of Trail Creek; five children, William Downey of Big Fork, Mont., Gary (Cynthia) Downey of Michigan City, Edward (Kim) Downey of Kalispell, Mont., Armella Lee Downey of Michigan City and Tara (Mark) Konya of New Carlisle; sixteen grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren; former spouse and mother of his children, Armella Downey-Reuber of Michigan City; one sister, Francis Jean Fite of Michigan City; four brothers, Richard (Linda) Downey of Chesterton, James (Karen) Downey of Westville, Ray (Jeanne) Downey of LaPorte and Darrold (Iris) Downey of Elyria, Ohio and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his second wife, Cynthia Bladen; grandson, Nathan Johnson; one sister, Ellen Stroud; one brother, Charles Downey and one brother-in-law, Donald Fite.

Downey worked for Midwest Steel for 37 years until his retirement in 1997. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and playing card games with family and friends. Bill was a dedicated and loving, father, friend and family man who will be missed by all who knew him.

A remembrance gathering in honor of his life will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, September 24, 2011 at Michigan City Fish and Game Club. Cremation will take place.

Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, 247 W. Johnson Road, LaPorte is handling arrangements.

Condolences to the family may be posted at www.LakeviewFHC.com

Posted 9/22/2011