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James DOWNEY Obituary
Born in Winterton, Newfoundland in 1939, Jim was the last child and only son of Ernest and Mimy Ann, following five older sisters. They all knew from the time he was a young boy that he was gifted, smart and curious. Most people born 'around the bay' worked in the fisheries. He was lucky, however, that Premier Joey Smallwood offered scholarships to kids from outports to come to St. John's to attend university.
His academic fire was lit, and he completed a BA, B. Ed. and M.A. at Memorial before getting a Rothermere fellowship to earn his PhD at the University of London (Birkbeck College) in 1966.
His first academic position was teaching English in the Faculty of Arts at Carleton University. He rose up the academic ranks quickly - from Chair of the English Department, to Dean of Arts, to Vice-President Academic, and President Pro-tempore, in less than 14 years. He then moved to Fredericton to become President of the University of New Brunswick (1980-90) and served as President of the University of Waterloo (1993-99). He was the inaugural President of the Higher Education Quality Council of Ontario from 2007-09.
In 1996, his contribution to education was recognized when he was appointed to the Order of Canada, and he received countless honorary degrees from universities he dearly admired.
He was asked many times over the years how someone with a PhD in English literature who loved teaching ended up as a university administrator. He always shrugged and said, "I just wasn't paying attention."
In addition to this incredible career, he lived a life full of friendship and adventure. He was a keen tennis player, avid reader, impressive orator, loyal pen pal and prolific writer. We are fortunate to have so many family stories, letters, essays, books, recordings, and lessons that will keep his memory and keen wit with us for years to come.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the University of Waterloo or the University of New Brunswick which can be made through the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King Street S., Waterloo, ON www.erbgood.com or 519-745-8445.
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Memories and Condolences
for James DOWNEY
Sponsored by Erb & Good Family Funeral Home - Waterloo.
33 Entries
Heather Wicks-Smith
November 8, 2022
Our family has just learned of « Mr. Downey´s » passing and we are so very sad. I have treasured memories of family get togethers as a child with Sarah, Geoffrey and Mr and Mrs Downey! He was a lovely man and my heart is with his family.
Margo Disher Emrich UNB'81
July 25, 2022
I knew the leadership of UNB had decidedly changed when as the student Orientation Chairman, I was asked to meet with the new president. When I returned his call to arrange a time, he suggested we meet on the green outside the SUB as he wanted to take a walk. No power desk between us; just a genuinely lovely human interested in the workings of our student led orientation program. Later, I received a handwritten letter on his presidential paper, that became part of my endorsements in my professional portfolio. Dr. Downey was a wonderful role model on what educators and administrator's should aspire to be. My condolences.
David George Beer
April 15, 2022
I remember Jim well from the time he was Dean of Arts at Carleton. I found his eloquence remarkable and his support, when I was a very young chair of Classics, very comforting. He often sent me notes. He also had a great sense of humour. His secretary, as administrative assistants were called at the time, Barbara Sudall took time off one morning a week to attend my Greek and Roman Literature class. Jim saw me in the elevator one afternoon after a class. He said; "Josh I hear you gave one of your best classes ever today. I gather you did not go to bed last night." My deepest condolences to his wife Laura and Jim's whole family.
Henry Chong
April 2, 2022
To Laura, Sarah and Geoffrey and the family, my most sincere condolence. I am deeply saddened to learn of Jim's passing and I'm sure many fellow UNB alumni in Hong Kong would join me. Jim was our dear friend. During his many visits, we had some wonderful times together learning about the latest at our Alma Mater. His presence, his witty speeches, his interest in our lives and activities and more made us feel so at home with him. I am very sorry for the loss and may he rest in peace.
Anne Warner La Forest
March 31, 2022
I was very much saddened to hear this news. I met Jim personally in 1984 when I was a student at the Law Faculty at UNB and he helped me with a scholarship application and I still appreciate the fact that he would take the time to talk personally to me about my career and life. I knew him more generally through my family and I remember distinctly that my parents (Marie and Gerard) always loved going to events with Jim and Laura. Jim was a lovely vibrant person who excelled in his chosen work as a university president. He was funny and told a great story. My condolences to Laura and the family. Thank you for sharing him with us at UNB.
Michael and Teresa Wu
March 31, 2022
Our thoughts and prayers are with Laura, Sarah and Geoffrey. We were deeply saddened to hear of Jim's passing. We had the pleasure of knowing Jim and his family when he was the President of UNB. We have many fond memories of his visits to Hong Kong, day trips to Stanley Market, his participation at the Fat Choy Ball and his fondness of dim sum lunches. I am forever grateful for his guidance, support and commitment to the UNB Hong Kong Alumni Association. I recall many conversations with him about how we could promote engagement between Hong Kong alumni, the HK International student community and UNB. Teresa and I also had the opportunity to visit UNB on several occasions where Jim showed us around the campus and Fredericton. While it was through our mutual association with UNB that we got to know each other, we have always valued his friendship and considered him to be a close family friend. His warmth, kindness and good humour will be missed by all of the UNB Hong Kong Alumni.
Robert Kavanagh
March 30, 2022
Laura,
I am so sorry to learn of Jim´s passing. Please accept my sincere condolences.
I was fortunate to work with Jim for a while as a member of his managerial team. He was a wonderful leader.
Jim was exceptionally articulate. His oral presentations often exhibited his superb sense of humour and were always well received. Jim was a gifted writer and his publications were widely appreciated. He was a kind and thoughtful person and was admired by all who knew him. The University of New Brunswick benefitted significantly from Jim´s leadership as President.
John and Claire Morris
March 30, 2022
We send our deepest sympathies to Laura, Sarah and Geoffrey on the loss of Jim. He leaves a big hole in your family.
Jim's numerous accomplishments and personality were recognized in New Brunswick, Canada and countries far and wide where graduates of the University of New Brunswick reside.
His appointment as President of UNB brought a refreshing infusion of goals and aspirations for the oldest English speaking university in Canada. Jim and his family were welcomed by the various communities in the university as well as communities in NB and beyond. Jim's wit and oratorical skills jolted some at first but soon became infectious, helping to create laughter as well as inspiration for what became UNB's next period of growth and recognition in many sectors.
Jim's personal skills and style soon incited many of his supporting staff to try and produce their own limericks and hodge-podge books of memorable sayings. Jim had formidable skills on the tennis courts and on the dance floor and many of his staff, faculty and students appreciated the mentorship and encouragement that he was always willing to share.
Those of us who worked closely with him and enjoyed his friendship will have wonderful memories to recall as his legacy.
Kunhiraman (KPK) Nair
March 29, 2022
During my years at UNBF, I was privileged to serve as Dean of Faculty of Administration for a six year period and this was when Dr. James Downey was President. This gave me several opportunities to interact with Dr. James Downey. During his presidency both campuses made tremendous progress. At UNBF, the Faculty of Administration progressed in several areas. Among these Singer Hall, MBA program, and an externally funded center are some of the lasting gains. Without his leadership, guidance and unfailing support none of these would have happened. People who have known him will keep his memory and cherish for a long time. I wish to convey heartfelt condolence to Laura and the family.
K.P.K Nair
Pamela Steer
March 29, 2022
My thoughts are with Sarah and Elise as well as Manfred during these tough times. I'm a proud alumnus of University of Waterloo who graduated when Dr. Downey was President. A great institution and a wonderful connection. I'm sure he will be greatly missed.
Jean Coughlan Bednarski
March 29, 2022
My thoughts and prayers are with Laura and her family at this most difficult time.
Catherine Steele
March 28, 2022
I was a student at UNB from 84-88 when President Downey was in role. I had a part time job fund raising for the university and did rather well. He came to our year end event and somewhere I have a photo of him presenting me a gift. But my favorite story involves my dad, Ralph, who worked for 25 years at UNB in maintenance, specifically a cleaner. His last place of work was Lady Dunn hall and at that time there were tennis courts above the Dunn. In the good weather, my dad would have his lunch outside and have a casual chat with President Downey. If my dad saw him on campus he´d always have time to chat with my dad. Once when CUPE was threatening to go on strike my dad told President Downey he really didn´t want to strike and hoped Dr. Downey could make it right. My dad always thought Dr Downey was the best President UNB ever had. Based on how he treated my dad, I tend to agree. My sincere condolences for your loss.
Lynn Fraser Hruczkowski
March 28, 2022
Dear Mrs Downey and family, I am so very sorry to learn of Dr Downey´s passing. He was an amazing leader who had a huge impact on my life. We first met when, as a student at UNB, I was on the committee that interviewed Dr Downey for the position of president. As a student leader, I have many wonderful opportunities to engage with Dr Downey and I always found him to be respectful, thoughtful - and a lot of fun! He was responsible for me being hired into UNB's Development Office in the 80s; his encouragement and confidence resulted in my 30+-year career in educational fundraising. In 1990, I had the privilege of presenting Dr Downey with the Fredericton Chamber of Commerce Distinguished Citizen Award. We last saw each other in 1999, when Dr Downey received his honorary degree from McMaster University. His genuine interest in others, coupled with his wit, wisdom and natural charm, are attributes that I have long admired. It was my honour to have known such an extraordinary individual. My sincere condolences to you and your family. God bless.
Elise Downey
March 28, 2022
My grandfather was the most amazing person I've had the pleasure to meet. I and my family will miss him greatly. I wanted to thank you all for your kind words and sentiments about him. He always greatly talked about his academic life and the people who made work so special for him. His smile, humility, wit, and intelligence will all be missed.
Much love,
The Downey-Koo Family
Allenby Pinhorn
March 28, 2022
My condolences to the family. I have such fond memories of growing up with Jim in Winterton. We played hockey together on Clarkes Pond and softball together on the
Guides Ground , he pitcher and me catcher.
One of my memories also was Jim owning a set of boxing gloves and the boys boxing against him. He was a little better and most times won as he was in most things he engaged in.
Angie Barrados
March 28, 2022
Dear Sarah, Laura and Geoffrey,
My thoughts are with you at this sad time. I have been remembering all the fun times I spent with you as a family when Sarah and I were kids - all the energy and laughter and influences (e.g. to try tennis and real literature). I am giving you a big hug in spirit. My parents would also like to send their condolences. Love, Angie.
Sonya Hull
March 28, 2022
To the Downey Family - I am so very sorry for your loss. Dr. Downey was my distinguished UNB President during my undergrad, over his time here 1980-1990. He was an inspiring leader in academia, orator par excellence, and had that wicked Newfoundland wit to boot. How lucky we were to have him at UNB.
Mike and Mary Ircha
March 27, 2022
Dear Laura and family. We were sadden to hear of Jim's passing. He was an important mentor, supporter and role model for the development of my academic and administrative career. I enjoyed working with him on many projects at UNB. His wisdom, wit and humour have never been forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Bill Bendix
March 27, 2022
Patsy and I send our deepest condolences to Laura and the Downey family. I was lucky to have known Jim, first as a professor and mentor, then as a friend. I will always be grateful for the generosity and encouragement he showed me, and for the opportunities he gave me when I needed them most. I wouldn´t have the career that I now have without his gentle, perfectly timed nudges. Once, quoting Northrop Frye, Jim told me that charisma is only a Greek word for ham. He was laughing off a compliment if I remember correctly. He could be clever, scholarly, and modest all at once, and somehow pull it off without effort. Thanks, Jim, for your kindness and your shining example.
Ambrose Hearn
March 26, 2022
Dear Sarah
I was very sorry to read in the Globe and mail about of your father. Marie and I would like to offer our sincere condolences to you and the rest of your family. From our conversations ... of what seems like a long time ago now ... he was much respected and loved in the places he worked and served. Long after I finished at the Civic Hospital, I used to use some of the sayings attributed to him in my talks about the future and how we approach it. I hope you and your family are well and coping in these unusual and difficult times. Once again, my sincere condolences.
Best Regards
Ambrose
Scott Fillier
March 26, 2022
Laura, Sarah, Geoffrey and families,
My condolences for all of you as you try to solve the huge problem of Jim´s absence in your lives going forward.
It was my great good fortune and honour that Jim found out I was living in Stratford around 1999, phoned and visited, and for some reason wanted that connection to continue. Not just simply to continue, but to become close enough for our collaboration on several writing projects dear to his heart. He had such a huge circle
of famous friends and working acquaintances in Ontario, the Atlantic Provinces and NL it was astonishing to me that I fitted so well with what he needed; in fact he had projects lined up that we discussed doing, but I just couldn´t find time to fit them into my ownproject needs. We got along enormously well, and I am so grateful for those past 22 years of collaboration and friendship.
Thank you so much for sharing him with me. Fortunately also, some months ago, in a very lucid conversation we were having, I took the opportunity to express that gratitude to him in person. So, Jim, a fond farewell ...
Scott Fillier
Israel Unger
March 26, 2022
I was a professor at UNB starting in 1965 and Dean of Science from 1986 to 1999. In all those years the academic administartor I admired the most was Jim Downey. The man who did the most to make UNB part of the wider community was Jim Downey and the man who was most admired by the wider community and most frequently asked to speak at various events was Jim Downey. The man who was the most respected within UNB and the wider community was Jim Downey.
Inka Glick
March 26, 2022
Dear Laura and family, I am so sorry to hear of Jim´s passing. Please accept my deepest condolences, and please don´t hesitate to turn to the group for any help you may need.
Inka
Christan Nicholson
March 26, 2022
I am sorry to hear of Jim's passing.--Many years ago, 1984, I was the artist he chose to paint his official portrait for UNB---I remember him as a kind man, a family man, blessed with a loving wife & children, and now grandchildren.--For me he was a gift from outport Newfoundland to the rest of Canada.--Over the years I have used that portrait in promotional material.--It was a privilage to meet and know him for just a moment.--My heartfelt condolences to Laura and his loving family.--Memories do not go away, Christan
David Ritchie
March 26, 2022
Cathie and I extend our deepest sympathies to the entire Downey family. James leaves an incredible legacy as a scholar, administrator and well-rounded individual who impacted people on so many levels. His time at UNB will be forever etched into the documented history of excellence at that school, paving the way for progressive thinkers from so many different backgrounds. As somebody who worked with his son Geoffrey, I´m sure there will always be an incredible sense of pride for all members of the Downey family for what James accomplished and his everlasting impact on the institutions of higher learning.
Dave Morell
March 25, 2022
I have very fond memories of Jim in his time as President at UNB. He was a kind, intelligent and compassionate man who put UNB on the map! And, he was one of the best speakers I have ever heard. I have a profound appreciation for his communication skills as we first met when I was a broadcaster at CFNB radio in Fredericton. I finished my career with 15 years in UNB Athletics. Simply a wonderful human being. The students he helped along the way will be forever grateful for his wisdom and leadership. My condolences to the entire Downey family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Constantine Passaris
March 25, 2022
Heartfelt condolences to Laura and Geoffrey on the passing of your husband and Dad. I had the pleasure and infinite gratitude of knowing him as our UNB President, as a mentor and as a friend. His immense contributions to UNB are part of his legacy on our campus. He was the most articulate and well spoken President that UNB had and his ability to use the English language to his advantage was legendary. One of his observations that he shared with me brings always brings a smile to my face every time I think of him. He said in Fredericton, telling someone that what I am telling you is confidential means you can only repeat it to one person at a time. God bless both of you. You are in my thoughts and prayers during these difficult days.
Wiktor Askanas
March 25, 2022
Dear Laura all my thoughts are with you. Without James support I will never accomplish what I did. I am so sorry Wiktor
Bob Skillen and Gisele LeBlanc
March 25, 2022
Dear Laura, Sarah and Geoffrey, we share in your grief at the loss of a good man. Jim had a profound impact on higher education in Canada and, particularly, in New Brunswick. His ten years at the helm of Canada's Oldest English Language University were filled with many successes. He and your family were loved at UNB and in the community. I had the great honour and pleasure of working at UNB for over 30 years, first as alumni director and then vice-president. Jim was the president who hired me into, what became, a wonderful career for me in higher education. It is clear from my very first day in the alumni office that Jim Downey was loved by UNB's graduates. My last time to see Jim was when he was on campus to celebrate his Kennedy and Beaverbrook book. Gisele joins me in extending you our heartfelt condolences.
Joel Rumson
March 25, 2022
I am offering my biggest sympathies for the family. I cannot imagine the pain of loss due to my young age, but I do know that without him UNB would not be where it is today. I appreciate his work sincerely, and hope to the family much love. - Joel
Ps. It had always been my dream as a young child in a place of uneducated people and poverty to go to UNB and learn the skills to give back. So thank you.
Paul Greene
March 25, 2022
Sympathies to Geoffrey and the rest of Dr. Downey´s family. He left a legacy in several provinces and no doubt had a positive impact on many people over his career and life.
Greg MacCallum
March 25, 2022
Geoffrey and family,
Please accept the sincere condolences of your NBEMO family on the loss of your Dad. A most impressive man, I know he will be celebrated and missed by many. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all . Sincerely, Greg
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