Delbert Franklin Downey

Delbert Franklin Downey, born September 11, 1943, in Peoria, Illinois, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2025, at Loma Linda Murrieta Hospital. He was 81 years old.
Delbert known as Del was raised in El Paso, Texas, and lived a life marked by strength, deep love for his family, and unwavering dedication to his work and country. He proudly served in the United States Air Force and later became a lifelong member of the Local 669 Pipe Fitters Union, dedicating 57 years to a career he took great pride in.
Del had a deep love for life's simple joys-tinkering in his garage, cooking for others, and building with his hands. In his younger years, he built two homes in Hawaii and held a lifelong passion for the islands. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Lynda, and together they traveled the world, creating a lifetime of memories and adventures.
He is survived by his loving wife, Lynda Downey, of Canyon Lake, California, and his four children: Pamela K. Downey of West Lafayette, Indiana; Preston T. Downey(fiancé Kimsu) of Lake Arrowhead, California; Del E. Downey (wife Evelyn) of Temecula, California; and Mark A. Downey (wife Gabriela) of Costa Rica.
Del was a proud grandfather to eleven grandchildren: Adam (wife Jenn), Brett(significant other Cindy), Emily (fiancé Zachary), Shelby (husband Cory), Brandon(fiancé Olivia), Daniel (wife Makaila), Ethan, Riley (fiancé Santi), Chloe, Landon, and Keegan, and a great-grandfather to eight beloved great-grandchildren.
A military burial service will be held at Riverside National Cemetery on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at 1:45PM
Address: 22495 Van Buren Blvd, Riverside, CA 92518.
Del's legacy is one of service, strength, love, and generosity. His warmth and steady presence will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.