MICHAEL DOWNING

I adored Michael. He led wonderful discussions for our English department in Newton, and I was lucky enough to take his short story Teachers as Scholars course. He was so smart and witty, and made each of his students feel the same.
At the end of the TAS course, he gifted each of us a copy of his novel The Chapel. A generous and talented man who touched my life briefly but profoundly.
So sorry for your loss.

For Peter, Michael’s Family and Friends,
I was so sincerely sorry to learn that Michael had passed away. I knew Michael during our elementary and high school years. I joined Michael and our friends, Joey, Bobby, Billy, Brenda, RoseAnne, and Patty as we traversed through our high school classes together in a pod. Michael was a shining star in our pod. His facility for both English and History were impressive. He had a marvelous sense of humor; we were under a lot of pressure to succeed...

My condolences to the family. I remember him from St. Joe. Nice guy!

While I never had the honor to meet the esteemed Michael Downing, I knew of him through his thoughtful and engaging speaking and writing. I feel forever grateful for his chronicling of DST’s history. Please accept my deepest condolences to his family for this passing.

Dear Joe, Peter and family,

I was able to reconnect with Michael a few years back after discovering his literature, and was so happy to be so comfortable e-chatting with a lovely, funny and fun friend from childhood. I am so sad for your loss and sorry that i never had the chance to say hi in person. Be well and treasure your happy memories.

Joan Maloy

I am so very sorry to hear of Michael's passing. His brother Joe was my roommate at Harvard College many years ago and I have followed Michael's remarkable career and undeniable contribution to life ever since. My deepest sympathy to Peter, the Downing family, and all who knew and loved this remarkable person.

Dear Peter, Jack, and members of the Downing family:

Our deepest sympathy on the passing of Michael.

Ken & Patty Rivers

Dear Peter, Joseph, and the entire Downing Family,
I was so saddened when I learned of Michael’s passing. Please be comforted by the remarkable life Michael lived. When I think of him I will always smile at the wonderful fun and laughter we shared growing up as next door neighbors and friends. Last year, when we saw each other he hugged me and the years melted with the immediate recognition of what exists between lifelong friends. Godspeed Michael, I know you were carried in an...