DALE DOWNEY

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DALE DOWNEY
May 9, 1943 – January 9, 2023

Peacefully, with the love of his life by his side, Dale Robert Downey passed away on January 9, 2023, at the age of 79.
Dale was predeceased by his mother Ieleane Downey (nee Hemphill), his father Dr. Joe Downey, and his brother Jay Downey.
Dale will be lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 54 years, Lee Downey (nee Coughlin), sons, Tim (Desiree) Downey, Chris (Melanie McIntyre) Downey, his beloved grandchildren, Mia, Xavier and Isla Downey, his sisters, Lynne Hindle, Barb (Wally) Sumner, Mia (Tom) Dunn and his youngest brother Tom (Ann) Downey. Dale will also be remembered by his many nieces, nephews, past students, and friends.
Dale was born in Winnipeg on May 9, 1943, and first lived in Riverview. Following the flood of 1950, the family moved to Waverley Street where Dale spent his formative years. Dale and his family spent their summers at the family camp on Coney Island on Lake of the Woods where many memories were made. Dale was an accomplished athlete who excelled in basketball and football. Dale was inducted into the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame in 2009 for his position with the 1961 St. James Rods Football Team.
Dale studied Science and Education at the University of Manitoba and taught high school Biology in the Winnipeg School Division, at Churchill High School and Kelvin High School where he positively impacted countless students.
In 1966, on a double date, Dale met the love of his life Lee Coughlin. While Lee was not his date that night, their chemistry was undeniable. They went on to marry in 1968 and enjoyed more than 54 years together. While Dad cared for and loved many people, the love that he had for Mom trumped all. He found his strength through her, and her faith inspired him to develop and grow until his final days.
Dale and Lee had two sons, Tim and Chris and spent most of their married life at the family home on Harper Avenue in Windsor Park. When not working, Dale enjoyed golfing, spending time at the cottage and visiting with friends and family. Following their retirement, Dad and Mom escaped the winters and headed south to New Braunfels, Texas, where they met many great friends.
While Dale was a committed husband and loving father / grandfather, a big part of his life was devoted to helping people through their recovery journey with Alcoholics Anonymous. Dale helped many heal through recovery for more than 40 years. His own growth through recovery lead to his strong faith in Jesus Christ. His faith played an active role in his daily life and brought Dale much joy and peace, especially when he could share a long discussion with those that were open to it.
During his final Christmas dinner with his family around him, his granddaughter Mia said, "Grandpa doesn't say things often, but when he does, they are meaningful". Anyone who knew Dale knows that to be true.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Southwood Country Club at 12:00 p.m. on February 4, 2023. All those that knew Dale and the family are welcome to join us.
Dale appreciated the work of Sister Leslie and the women at the Holy Names House of Peace. Donations can be made to the Holy Names House of Peace, 211 Edmonton St., Winnipeg, MB R3C 1R4. https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/holy-names-house-of-peace-inc/
The family would like to extend their appreciation to Dr. Stephen Goulet at the St. Boniface General Hospital for his kindness and compassionate care.

Family and friends may sign a book of condolence at www.glenlawn.ca.

Glen Lawn Funeral Home
204-982-7550

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 21, 2023