Leonard-Downing, Jr.-Obituary

Photo courtesy of Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home

Leonard O. "Tort" Downing, Jr.

Atchison, Kansas

Mar 12, 1964 – Aug 16, 2023

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BORN
March 12, 1964
DIED
August 16, 2023
LOCATION
Atchison, Kansas

Obituary

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Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home Obituary

Leonard O. Downing, Jr., who most knew as Tort, passed on Wednesday, August 16, 2023, at Midland Care in Topeka, KS.


 


Tort was born on March 12, 1964, Casper, Wyoming, the son of the late Leonard O. Downing, Sr., and Ruth (Tucker) Downing. He graduated from Atchison High School in 1982 and then he played football at Cowley County Community College in Arkansas City, KS and Washburn University in Topeka, KS.


 


He married Rona (Jennings) Downing December 3, 1988, and they were later separated.


 


He was formerly employed as a manager at Midwest Grain Products in Atchison, Kansas.  


 


Tort’s favorite part of life was spending time with his family and kids. Most of the activities involved playing or watching sports with family. Tort was an avid Kansas Jayhawks fan and loved to attend any and all sporting events. Tort was a generous soul who loved doing for others and his community. 


 


Left to remember and carry on his legacy include his children; Wes Downing, Ryan and Shalisha Downing, Kyle Downing, Avery Downing, Leah Downing; two grandchildren, Maxwell and Emory Downing; four siblings, Victor Downing, Sr., Vincent Downing, Stephanie Downing, Eric Downing; and too many nieces and nephews to count.


 


A service to celebrate Tort’s life will be on Wednesday, August 23, 2023, at 12 noon at the First Christian Church. The family will gather with friends for a time of visitation on Wednesday, beginning at 10:30 am, prior to the service at the church. Funeral care has been entrusted to the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home.


 


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I had no idea that my Brother and friend Leonard, "Tort" passed away. I am so sad to hear this news, but I know that he is with the Lord. My heart and prayers go to my Brother Victor and Tort's family and children. God bless you all!

"Tort" was someone who was always smiling. Got to know him in college and he was a good influence on our son as a youth basketball coach. He opened his heart and home to our son and we are grateful for him. Thinking of you kids during this time!!

Rest well Brother Tort. Sending my love, condolences and prayers for strength to the family.

Rip uncle Tort! I will always remember the good times in Atchison being around you and the family. The entire family is in my prayers. "Just call me Joe"

To Stephanie and family, so sorry for your loss, may God comfort you in this difficult time.

Wow Cousin Tort was such an Awesome Kind he loved family so much. I remember the last time I seen him was at Our last family reunion and he was that same loving guy.Sending much love and Prayers to my Cousin's Victor Vincent Stephanie Best Buddy,all of Torts children, family and friends Rest well Cousin Tort Leonard Downing Jr till we meet again

My prayers are with the entire Downing family.May God comfort u in this difficult time. I played football with Tort at cowley he was a wonderful young man and and a very good DB.I was blessed to be his friend .I'm saddened by his passing a young life gone to soon but never for gotten. RIP my good friend my the lord watch over you and comfort your family

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.