Gary Downing

1967 - 2017

Gary Downing Gary Argene Downing passed away on Monday, August 21, 2017, at the age of 49. He was born in Dillon, Montana and attended Mead High School in Spokane, where he enjoyed being the quarterback of the football team and throwing the javelin in track. He graduated from Washington State University in 1990 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Marketing, and moved to Los Angeles, where he started his sales career with Evergreen Aviation. After traveling the world, he moved to Tigard, Oregon and began a career with Bankers Life and Casualty, where he remained until he had to retire in 2013 due to the complications of ALS. Gary was awarded the Rookie Sales Agent of the Year for Bankers. He quickly moved up into management and served as a top branch manager, a regional director, an executive council member, and the go-to-guy for sales training videos and conferences. Gary was an avid elk hunter, fisherman, and golfer, with a quick wit and infectious laugh. He was known for his innertube rides on the lake, his skill at grilling steaks and brussel sprouts, and his passion for tailgating. Gary is survived by his wife Kristin (Zemek); four daughters, Megan, Jenna, Kaitlyn, and Ally; parents Ken and Terri Downing; sisters Jolene Downing (Michelle) and Lynn Stapleton (Brian); and brother Troy Downing. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, August 31, 2017, at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church at 11am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent in Gary's name to the ALS Association Evergreen Chapter, 19226 66th Ave S, Suite L-105, Kent, WA 98032. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneycares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003.