Michael James Downey

Mike was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Mary Christine Shrum Downey and Maynard Lawrence Downey. When Mike was six, Maynard died suddenly so Mary moved the family back to her hometown of Coffeyville, Kansas.  When Mike was a junior in high school he was selected by the high school division of the NCAA for all American honors.  He was one of ten boys chosen across the United Stated.  Mike received scholarships for swimming and graduated from Kansas University with a BA.  He returned a few years later to obtain his Master’s Degree.

Mike met his wife, Kathy McIntyre Snyder, in 1972 and they were married in 1975.  They had a son and daughter.  Mike also helped raise two step-sons. In 1978 he built a beautiful home on three acres in Kent, Washington for his family with the help of family and friends. Mike and Kathy lived in this home for thirty-nine years.

Mike worked for the Boeing Company, retiring in 2002. After retirement Mike enjoyed many rounds of golf as well as travelling with family and friends.

Mike was a hands-on father, and very involved in his children’s and grandchildren’s activities.  They brought him great joy.

He is survived by his wife, Kathy; son, Nathan Downey, daughter, Jennifer (Russell) Holland, step-sons, Randy and Rodney Snyder; grandchildren, Morgan Snyder, Jonathon Elliott, Riley Snyder and Ava Holland; his brother, Richard Downey and sister, Mary Anne Downey Mailliard. He was preceded in death by his mother and father and his brother, Larry Downey.

Mike was a kind and gentle man of integrity who loved his family.  He will be deeply missed but we have comfort knowing he is in his heavenly home with his loved ones and we will see him again.  

A memorial service will be held on September 1, 2022, at 1:00 p.m. at Family of Grace Lutheran Church, 31317 124th Ave SE, Auburn, WA, with a reception following service at Meridian Valley Country Club, 24830 136th Ave. SE, Kent, WA.

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