Kenneth Argene Downing

1939 - 2025

Kenneth Argene Downing

A beloved man has passed into the arms of God. Kenneth Argene Downing, 3/5/1939-3/9/2025, passed away peacefully, with family at his side. Now he is dancing in heaven with his wife, Terri (Faye Theresa Langland) Downing 10/3/1940-10/14/2024 and fishing with his son Gary Downing 10/4/1968-8/21/2017.

He is survived by 3 children, Jolene (Michelle Ludwick) Downing, Lynn Stapleton (Downing), and Troy Downing, as well as a son in law Brian Stapleton and a daughter in law Kristin Downing. He is known as Muca (instead of grandpa) by his 10 grandchildren; Shawntaya (Brad) Harrington, ShaLane (Cameron) Hertel, Breanna Downing, Faye Teresa Stapleton, Bridget Stapleton, Michael Stapleton, Megan Downing, Jenna (Jesse) Hargrove, Kaitlyn Downing, and Ally Downing. He also has 3 great granddaughters; Londyn Cullen, Kenna Faye Hertel, and Juniper Faye Harrington. He was a loving, entertaining, and devoted father and grandfather to us all. Some of his happiest moments were when he had a baby in his arms while he danced and sang to their delight.

He was born in Idaho Falls, Idaho to Kenneth Ellsworth Downing, 4/9/1911-11/19/1966, and Helen Marie Downing (Bourassa) 1-16/1918-12/18/2002. His early years were spent at Ziegler Hot Springs and The Idaho Rocky Mountain Ranch where his father worked as an entertainer and trail guide. He spent his school years in Dillon, MT where his parents built, owned, and operated the Club Royal nightclub. Ken excelled at academics and sports while working at the nightclub and local ranches. He had 2 sisters, Dorine Downing 9/13/36-2/11/2005 (Kim, Kari and Kenneth) and Delayne Worley (Rob, Melanie, Shar and Rochelle). He was very close to his beloved uncle Robert Bourassa 11/8/1932-10/3/2010, his wife Evelyn and their 5 kids Sherri, Michael, Delwyn, Pam, and Michelle.

Ken can be defined as a man of strong faith, compassion for others, and a true cowboy. He worked on ranches from a young age, rode broncs in rodeos, and helped many friends with cattle drives. Ken was an outdoor enthusiast who found peace in the mountains. He was an expert fisherman and hunter who, with great skill and patience, mentored many people into these sports. He always enjoyed camping with friends and family. His camps were elaborate with a well-stocked kitchen and a play tent for the grandkids. He was a talented musician who played lead, rhythm, and bass guitar. His voice was clear and strong as he sang classic country or rock and roll songs. He was in several bands to include the successful Valiants in the late 50's. He entertained family and friends throughout his lifetime.

In his youth he worked several jobs and could do just about anything. After high school graduation, Ken served 4 years of active duty in the Airforce and several years in the Army National Guard. It was while he was stationed at Moses Lake Airbase that he met and married the love and purpose of his life, Terri. Their early years were spent in Montana, having their 4 kids, while he attended college and started in the insurance business. He had a very successful career in Bankers Life and Casualty insurance company that spanned decades and several promotions. He received many honors, but he was most proud of moment when he and his son Gary were inducted in the Bankers Life Hall of Fame on the same day.

Ken never met a stranger and he was a great story teller. He gave his time and talents to help and comfort numerous people. He was sensitive to other people's struggles and always did what he could to lesson their burden. Ken will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and community.

His services will be on 5/23/2025 at Saint Rose of Lima Catholic church in Dillon, Mt. There will be a Rosary at 10:30 am, funeral mass at 11:30am, followed by a light lunch at the church hall. Burial will be at Mountain View Cemetery following the lunch.

The family want to extend their extreme gratitude to the compassionate, attentive team at the Fields Alderbrook Memory Care Unit who cared for him during his last few months. We also express great appreciation for the care and support given to us by the team at Gentiva Hospice during his last days. To leave condolences for the family, please visit Kenneth's Tribute Page at www.hennesseyvalley.com.