Jimmie Dean (Jim) Downey passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, April 27, 2023.  He was surrounded by his loving family.

Jim was born on March 29, 1930 in Benjamin, Utah, to Dennis Lundholm and Doris Shepherd Downey.  He married Merle Lucile Bean on November 25, 1950 in Provo, Utah.  They were sealed in the Manti Temple on December 19, 1963.

Jim was employed at U.S. Steel/Geneva Works in Orem for many years.  For much of this time, he served as the President of U.S. Steel Corporation’s Pipe Mill local Union #5236.  He traveled the country on union business and spent many weeks in Pittsburgh, PA negotiating on behalf of local workers’ rights.  A highlight for him over the years was having the opportunity to watch every National League baseball team play on his union business travels.

Jim coached his sons and many other boys in Little League, Pony League, and American Legion baseball. He was the greatest cheerleader of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren in all of their activities and events.

In his later years, Jim acquired a skill for and a love of woodworking.  You could often find him out in his shed working on his lathe.  Those he came in contact with were recipients of his beautiful wooden pens, oil vials, ornaments and letter openers.  He built many wooden projects for his children and grandchildren.  He was a Jack-of-all trades.  He could fix anything and, if he didn’t know how, he would figure out a way.

Jim was a friend to everyone.  He enjoyed ballgames whether or not he knew the players.  He could strike up a conversation with anyone.  His tiny little home always had an open door and was filled with great love for whoever entered there.  He was the kindest, most loving person you would ever meet.

Jim was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  He served in many callings over the years, including in the Benjamin Ward Bishopric and as a Provo Temple ordinance worker.  Jim loved people and loved serving others.

Oh, how we will miss you.  A part of our hearts is shattered while the other part is happy for your reunion with your sweetheart.  We will hold onto our memories and remember all the times you expressed your love in so many ways.  Enjoy your new view.  Now you’ll never miss a game or activity.  Try not to yell at the refs, they can’t hear you!  And enjoy dancing around heaven with your sweetheart.  Give her a hug from all of us.

Jim is survived by five children; Steven J (Michele) and Gary (Becky) of Orem, Michael R. (Tricia) and Jeanette of Spanish Fork, and Carolyn of Las Vegas, as well as 30 grandchildren and 41 great-grandchildren.  He is also survived by two siblings, Betty (Clifford) Cartwright of Richland, WA and Doug Downey of Spanish Fork and three brothers-in-law, Duane Curtis of Payson, Vernon Marshall of West Mountain and Clifford Cartwright of Richland, WA and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his sweet wife, Merle; three children, John, Brent and Merle Ann; six siblings, Maurice, Ned, Russell, Bob, Patsy and Doris; and four sisters-in-law, Margie Downey, Carol Downey, Hazel Downey and Anna Mae Downey.

A viewing will be held on Friday, May 5, 2023, from 6-8 p.m. at Walker Funeral Home in Spanish Fork.  A funeral will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2023, at 11 a.m. at the Benjamin, Utah, LDS Chapel at 3238 West 7300 South, Benjamin, Utah.  A viewing will precede the funeral from 9:45-10:45 a.m.

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