Obituary of Kenneth Gregg Downing

Kenneth Gregg Downing, known fondly as Ken, was born on August 6, 1947, in Des Moines, IA, and passed away on December 23, 2023. He resided in Lake Havasu City, Arizona with his beloved wife, Elaine Downing, whom he married on March 30, 1996. Ken spent his professional life in the field of geology, working for the Bureau of Land Management in Sacramento and Needles, California, the last 25 years of work until his retirement in 2013. Ken was also a proud member of the National Federation of Federal Employees and was the Chief Steward for NFFE Local 2152, representing the employees of California BLM. His career was not just a job for him but a passion that allowed him to understand and appreciate the world and the people around him. He was a strong and knowledgeable employee rights advocate and fought many long/hard battles for the employees he represented, which is a passion that drew him and his wife, Elaine, together. In addition to his professional achievements, Ken was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying camping, fishing, and hunting. These hobbies were not merely pastimes but an extension of his love for nature and the beauty of the earth. He is survived by his wife, Elaine Downing, daughter Melissa Downing, stepdaughter Jeanette DeRieux Seals, and stepson, Nicholas DeRieux, stepmother Lorriane Downing, and four grandchildren. He is predeceased by his parents, Clyde Downing of Staten Island, NY, and Miriam Gillis, of Brenham, TX. Please honor Ken's memory by sharing your stories, memories, and photos on the memorial page. Your contributions will help us all remember the man who made such a significant difference in our lives. There will be no services. Donations can be made to Hospice of Havasu.