Ricard E. "Rick" Downing

Happy Birthday pop

Merry Christmas Pop.

Brett

I remember Dr. Downing walking in the classroom and challanging every individual in his presence. I remember the 100 point "quizzes". I mostly remember a man who loved his family, his students and his community. He was always looking for a way to challange those he mentored to becoming the best they can be. As a teacher he was challanging. As a mentor he was encouraging and uplifting. As a "brother" he was a friend. The world is truly a better place for having him in it.

My family's...

I am happy to say that Dr. Downing was my first teacher when I started at Rockhurst back in the fall of 2003. I had him that semester and two other semesters at Rockhurst and I was always amazed at his knowledge and wit. My last class with him was just this last Spring when I had an Independent Study with him.

He has a great way of conveying information to his students and class was always interesting.

I am so sorry for your loss but you should know that my time at...

Well time has come and gone, Hoping his family strength and will pray Gods consolation at this time of need. Rick was a good friend and a good citizen even as a young man seemed to respect others and was thankful for what God had given him. I have thought of him often, and he is already missed

I currently am taking Dr. Downing's MIS 3100 class this summer, and am very sorry to hear about your loss. Dr. Downing was an amazing professor that found new and interesting ways to make class fun and enjoyable. As a fellow member of ADG with his nephew Steve, I want to extend my prayers to your family during this difficult time, and reiterate how much he will be missed by all current and previous students.

I cannot express the loss we all feel. Dr. Downing was a great friend and extraordinary teacher! He has touched so many lives and will never be forgotten by his friends, family, or students. I consider myself lucky to have had Dr. Downing as a professor and more importantly to call him my friend! Debbie, Brett, and Jeff... Rick lit up when telling his famous stories about you all! He was very lucky to have such a wonderful family, please know you are in all of our thoughts and prayers.

A deep feeling of sorrow overcomes me to hear of the loss of Dr. Downing. At the same time, a stronger feeling of thankfulness comes and replaces this grief. I am deeply thankful that I had Dr. Downing as a mentor and professor. He made class exciting, and showed a great passion to help his students. He went above and beyond to advise me in my schoolwork, and he even helped me to get my current and first job out of college. I am very thankful for all of his help and will never forget his...

I can only echo Josephine Nigro’s comments about Dr. Downing. He was an outstanding role model, teacher and dear friend for so many Rockhurst students, including my daughter, Jesse. Debbie, Brett and especially Jeff, please know that your family is in my prayers during this difficult time.