John D. Downing, 85, lifelong resident of Kennebunk, died Monday evening at his residence surrounded by his family following a period of failing health.
John had a big presence. Truly a “people person” he saw good in others and overlooked flaws. He was approachable, cheerful, down to earth, and genuine. Conversing with others gave him pleasure, for to him, people were life.
His childhood was spent at the family dairy farm on Downing Road. He worked with his father delivering milk in glass bottles to people’s doorsteps throughout the area and, therefore, he knew everyone and vice versa.
He attended Kennebunk High School and Nasson College, married his high school sweetheart Nancy Freeman and established his business. He worked at his beloved Downing Agency for 64 years until shortly before passing. Well regarded in the real estate community, he sold thousands of homes, some multiple times. He loved helping people and was especially drawn to assisting first-time homebuyers and people of limited means obtain the American dream of homeownership. Having his children Susan and Sam join and continue his business gave him great pride.
A staple at community events, John was a philanthropist of actions and deeds sponsoring Little League teams, creating the vision that is now Rotary Park, as the master of ceremonies orchestrating the Christmas tree lighting and Santa’s arrival, to name just a few.
He held great interest in politics and was a proud American who revered those in the armed services. He was a lover of all sports and fiercely loyal to the home team be it Rams, UMaine Black Bears, Red Sox, Patriots, or any local person who made it to the big time.
Above all, he loved and adored his family. John is survived by his wife Nancy Freeman Downing, children Susan Downing and Samuel Downing and his wife Amanda, two grandchildren Quinn and Lily Downing, all of Kennebunk. Two sisters Mary Benbow and her husband John of La Jolla, California, and Barbara Freeman of Ocean Park, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, Samuel O and Eleanor Downing, and his sister, Martha Boothby.
Due to COVID guidelines but still wanting to be able to remember this great man, the community is invited to honor John’s memory with a drive-by visitation to be held 1 to 3 p.m. Wednesday, March 31, 2021, at Bibber Memorial Chapel, 67 Summer St., Kennebunk. Attendees are asked to enter the parking lot via Sea Road and exit onto Summer Street after visiting with the family. A private graveside service will be held, at a later date, at the Downing family burial ground, Downing Road, Kennebunk, at the farm.
Should friends desire, memorial donations may be made to the Kennebunk Rotary Club to support its Children’s Christmas Party Fund, at PO Box 888, Kennebunk, ME 04043.
To share a memory or leave a message of condolence, visit John’s Book of Memories Page at www.bibberfuneral.com.
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