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John Alex Downs

1963 - 2025

John Alex Downs obituary, 1963-2025, Chandler, IA

BORN

1963

DIED

2025

FUNERAL HOME

Valley of the Sun Mortuary & Cemetery

10940 East Chandler Heights Rd

Chandler, Arizona

John Downs Obituary

John Alex Downs

October 22, 1963 - February 6, 2025

Hitting coach John Downs, 61, was called up to the big leagues on February 6th, 2025. Coach John was promoted in a way he could have only imagined as a mentor to Jesus, who is struggling with a batting average of.125 in his spring church league. John approached this challenge with his signature optimism and determination, embodying the spirit of a true coach. He believed in the power of faith and hard work, always encouraging his players: Measure up to move up, find your balance, and keep swinging no matter the odds.

John's battle with prostate cancer was arduous, yet he faced it with the same tenacity he instilled in his players. John joked, this fight will probably end in a tie, a testament to his unshakable spirit and love for the game. He leaves behind his family, friends, and a community of players who admired his strength, humility, and unwavering support.

In addition to his passion for sports, John was an entrepreneur and owned Big John's Carpet Cleaning for 28 years. As a lifetime member of the Chandler Compadres, he was known for his altruism and willingness to give, which he will always be remembered for. His love for golf will live on, with his celebration of life being held at Lone Tree Golf Club.

John is survived by his wife, Shelly and their three children, Spencer, Abby, and Kelly. He also leaves behind brothers, Mike, Pete, and Tim and sisters, Rose and Nancy. He was preceded in death by his mother, Mary; father, Raymond; brothers, David and Gary; sister, Joyce; and beloved family pet, Chuy.

A memorial fund has been established for his family. Donations can be sent to Shelly Downs at:

3999 S. Dobson Rd., Apt. 1083

Chandler, AZ 85248.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier on Mar. 15, 2025.

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4 Entries

Joel Alter

March 23, 2025

I'm so sorry to read of John's passing, and at such a young age. I never knew John as an adult, but I was constant companions with John and his brothers when we were kids--neighborhood basketball, football, baseball, etc. John was probably the youngest in our neighborhood group, but he was such a gifted athlete. RIP, John, and my condolences to the family. Maybe I can play a game of HORSE with John somewhere down the line...

CRAIG WHITE AKA WHITEY

March 18, 2025

John grew up in CF went to ST PATS with your brother Dave you had a big family like us you will be missed tell Dave hi in heaven

James A Wahner

March 15, 2025

So sorry to read , of your loss .you have our deepest sympathys Rip John. Mat God Bless you, and all of your family. Your journey is over and now has gone HOME, to be with our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ! In Jesus name, Amen!!

Barbara Carlson

March 15, 2025

What a unique and loving obituary and great photo!. Did not know John but some of his siblings. Sending many loving thoughts to the family.

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To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Valley of the Sun Mortuary & Cemetery

10940 East Chandler Heights Rd, Chandler, AZ 85248

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