Donald A. Down

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Donald A. Down, age 85, of Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, who passed away peacefully on September 21, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. He was a beloved husband, father, father-in-law, papa, brother, uncle, friend, and neighbor, and he'll be sorely missed.

Don was born on August 16, 1940, in Brooklyn, New York, to Walter and Mildred Down. He spent his formative years in Bayside, Queens, New York, and Wilmette, Illinois, where he developed a passion for electric trains and ham radio. He graduated from Purdue University in 1962 with a degree in Electrical Engineering, where he was a member of Phi Kappa Tau fraternity.

Don met the love of his life, Judy, in 1967, in Charlotte, North Carolina, and they were married in 1969. Their 56 years of marriage were filled with love, laughter, faith, kids, grandkids, friends, and too many adventures to count.

In a world of change, Don loyally worked for the same company for his entire 44 year career, retiring in 2005 from Cooper Power Systems in Waukesha. He traveled the world in his international marketing position. Don was seemingly more busy in retirement than he was during his working years, as he generously gave his time to the Elmbrook Rotary Club and Community United Methodist Church in Elm Grove. He was dedicated to being a Stephen Ministries leader for 17 years, a leader in the seniors organization (OWLS) at Community Church and served on various other committees at Community Church. He and Judy loved to entertain and to travel domestically and internationally.

Don is survived by his wife Judy; sons Brian and Stephen (Nikki); grandsons Beckett, Davis, and Keaton; brother Raymond; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and friends; and is predeceased by parents Walter and Mildred Down; infant son, David; sister-in-law Paula Reep; and brother-in-law John Reep.

The family would like to thank everyone involved in Don's care in recent years, including Dr. Laura Raftery, Dr. Tim Fenske, Dr. Nirav Shah, and the staff at Froedtert Hospital, who cared steadfastly for him.

Friends and family are welcome to celebrate Don's life on Saturday, October 4, 2025 at Community United Methodist Church, 14700 Watertown Plank Road, Elm Grove, Wisconsin. Don's family will host a visitation from 9:00 AM to the time of the memorial service at 11:00 AM at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Don's memory to:

Community United Methodist Church

14700 Watertown Plank Road

Elm Grove, WI, 53122

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