Michael Downs

Mike Downs, 62, of Wasilla and Athol, Idaho, died suddenly but peacefully Aug. 22, 2009, after a day of fishing on Prince William Sound. Memorial services will be held in Idaho and Arizona at a later date. His final resting place will be along the Blue River in eastern Arizona. Born April 7, 1947, in Prescott, Ariz., Mike served his country honorably in the U.S. Army in Vietnam in 1971-72. Mike loved animals and cared about the compassionate, humane treatment of them. He enjoyed racing cars and playing poker with his friends. He was preceded in death by his mother, Barbara Boyd Downs Mickey; and his father, Herschel Downs. He is survived by his best friend, Cruiser; who traveled with Mike, a retired trucker and businessman, on his many trips between Alaska and the Lower 48. He is also survived by his dear friends, Rosemary and George Lewis; half-sisters, Deb (Brian) Jennings of Tonto Basin, Ariz., and Mona (Bill, Marci) Bunnell of Blue, Ariz.; nine cousins; and many other friends scattered far and wide. Memorial bequests may be sent in Mike's name to animal-related charities of the donor's choice. Arrangements are with Alaskan Heritage Memorial Chapel in Wasilla.