Gary V. Downing

Gary Vernon Downing died on Monday, January 2, 2023, at home in Portland, Oregon. After 75 years of what he called a "beautiful life," Gary ultimately succumbed to complications of Lewy Body Dementia. In Gary's final years, he was tenderly cared for by his family; in his final moments, he was surrounded by that same love. Gary was born in Vancouver, Washington on October 8, 1947, to Roberta and Graydon Downing. He and his younger sister were just eight and six years old, respectively, when their mom died. Gary's dad remarried two years later, and in time, four younger siblings joined the family. Around this transition, Gary met two childhood friends, Randy and Mike, with whom he grew up and created a lifetime of joyful memories - all the way from climbing trees and riding bikes around the Lakeshore neighborhood, to welcoming spouses into the tight-knit group, and sharing vacations as couples. During high school and college breaks, Gary worked at his dad's business, Vancouver Roofing and Sheet Metal Co. In 1969, he proudly graduated from Pacific Lutheran University and married his high school sweetheart, Patricia, before serving in the Navy as a Radioman. In Boot Camp, he performed as Honorman; at Radioman School, he was top of his class. Gary was stationed as far away as the Philippine Islands and served at sea, but most enjoyed being on land in Coronado, California. Gary received an honorable discharge in 1973 and returned to the northwest to begin his professional career. Throughout his chosen career in banking, Gary was loyal to his clients and fully committed to their successes. He began with Benjamin Franklin Savings and Loan, opening a branch in La Grande, OR before rising through the ranks to become Vice President of Marketing and Research based in Portland. When the savings and loan crisis occurred and Benjamin Franklin closed, he joined U.S. Bank and won many awards as a VP and relationship manager for small businesses. Upon Gary's retirement in 2014, his clients celebrated him heartily, reflecting on how he helped them shape business growth plans and shepherded them through the realization of their goals. In fact, Gary was a shepherd and advisor in all aspects of his life. For many, he was the first call when something went awry, sometimes for calm comfort and often for a well-reasoned solution. He was thoughtful and always kind, encouraging to those around him and withholding any judgement of their struggles or choices. Gary's gentle presence and big heart often belied his sharp intelligence, but he was generous with his knowledge while shying away from any spotlight. Once you entered his circle, you were Gary's friend and always thought of fondly. Gary was musically gifted, with a beautiful baritone singing voice and a talent with the baritone horn. He frequently sang along with the radio and performed with the One More Time Around Again Marching Band, but was especially passionate about singing in church choirs and often led worship as a liturgist. Gary gave of himself to each Lutheran church he attended, as an active member and as a volunteer. He served as council president, chaired committees, and helped with financial management. Lewy Body Dementia stole much from Gary, most noticeably his words and rational thinking. This was particularly painful for someone who enjoyed solving crosswords in pen, completing jigsaw puzzles, calling out "Jeopardy!" questions ahead of the contestants, reading books, skillfully proof reading for anyone in need, and surprising whomever was near with dry, witty observations. Although sports became difficult for him to follow, Gary's hometown team loyalty never diminished. He was devoted to the Ducks football and Mariners baseball schedules, often watching games with his beloved sons-in-law. Gary took great pleasure in planning and organizing trips, nearly as much as he enjoyed the travel itself. Family vacations, whether when his daughters were young or grown, made room for everyone's interests. Adventures with Patricia and his friends, especially after his retirement, took him to long-standing favorite places and long-wished-for destinations. Gary loved the outdoors, had a keen sense of direction that could help anyone find their way around the Pacific Northwest, and enjoyed scenic driving, especially through the Columbia River Gorge and Oregon Coast. Generally, Gary favored ocean views, savoring visits to the Oregon Coast tidepools and dunes, Washington's clamming shores, whale watching in Alaska, and Hawaiian warmth. As a graceful and strong swimmer, he tested the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, but settled for a pool when it was more convenient. Gary delighted in his family and showed up for them in large and small moments. Regardless of their skill level, he relished coaching his young daughters in basketball. He was present and cheering for every competition, game, performance, and event where his children were involved, even as they became adults. Being sensitive and emotionally available, Gary was a wonderful conversationalist and confidant. On Saturday mornings, Patricia and he would sit on the sofa, drink coffee, and discuss their weeks, plans, and lives together. He was honorable, understanding, and to his family and those close to him, simply extraordinary. Gary was the love of Patricia's life and absolutely cherished by his daughters. In his last acts, Gary strove to protect his family from what Lewy Body Dementia was putting him through. He maintained his quiet dignity and dealt honestly with his impending death. We are deeply grateful for his boundless love, full attention, and soft kindness. You can learn more about Lewy Body Dementia from an editorial written by Susan Schneider Williams, whose experience with this little-known neurological disease captures much of Gary's ever-evolving condition. Gary was preceded in death by his mother, Roberta, and father, Graydon. Gary is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Patricia; daughters, Katie Wire (Ben) and Anna (Andrew Callahan); stepmother, Jeanne; and siblings, Susan Williamson (Dale), Karen (Scott Disher), Janet, Tim (Sandy), and Beth Stark (Les). Gary was laid to rest on January 12 at Evergreen Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Vancouver, WA. An evening prayer and memorial service celebrating Gary will be held on Wednesday, January 25, at 7:00 p.m. at Central Lutheran Church, 1820 NE 21st Ave., Portland, OR. In lieu of flowers or gifts, memorial contributions may be designated to Central Lutheran Church, which was a cornerstone community to this man of great faith.

Gary V. Downing

October 8, 1947 - January 2, 2023