Wm. "Larry" Downey

William "Larry" Lawrence Downey

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our ever-loved husband, dad, grandpa and great grandpa William Larry Downey on Monday, January 8, 2018 at the age of 75.

Larry will be missed dearly by his beloved wife Judy, children Dwight (Sherry) Downey, Dean Downey and Debbi (Marlo) McArthur.

Left to cherish Larry’s memories are his grandchildren Devin (Alysha), Ryley, Delaney, Darianne, Rockford, Paige and Alex.  As well, his special great grandchildren Kosten and Hudson.

Larry also leaves behind four sisters Mildred (Gerry), Dianne (Orville), Joanne (Dick) and Brenda as well as brother in law Roy (Sandy).

Larry’s fondest memories were meeting his wife Judy, raising their family and enjoying time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.  In his younger years Larry played hockey for Rapid City and was an aggressive defenseman.  Hockey had always been one of his favourite sports.  He could be seen regularly cheering his grandkids and the Terriers on.  He even had a spot in a Gordie Howe Hockey movie that was shot in town.  Larry loved stockcar racing in Rapid City and won many stock car races and had a few roll overs.  It was his love of sports and competition that made him an active dad coaching his boys in hockey and baseball.  He enjoyed several years serving his community in Portage as a Lions Club Member and loved participating in the MS walk achieving fundraising goals along the way.  In his most recent years Larry and Judy travelled to many old-time dances with friends and spent their winters as snowbirds in Osoyoos.  Family holiday meals were always special to Larry especially Christmas and sharing his famous fudge candy.

Funeral service will be held on Friday, January 12, 2018 at 1pm at Trinity United Church in Portage la Prairie.

If friend so desire, donations may be made in Larry’s memory to Diabetes Canada (Manitoba & Nunavut),401-1 Wesley Ave,Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 4C6 or the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba, 108 B Saskatchewan Ave. E. Portage la Prairie, MB R1N 0L1.

A tree will be planted and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com. 204-857-4021