Frederick L. Downs 1939-2025

He was born Nov. 18, 1939, in New Bethlehem, Pa., a son of David and Mary Kerr Downs.

Fred was a 1957 graduate of Red Bank Valley High School. He then enlisted in the U.S. Army, proudly serving for three years before being honorably discharged in 1961.

He then went to work as an electrician for the former Youngstown Sheet and Tube for several years, prior to its closing, and most recently RMI Titanium in Niles for 25 years, retiring in 2002.

He married the love of his life, the former Marjorie A. Crissman, on Nov. 17, 1962. Together they shared almost 63 years of marriage and many wonderful memories. She survives him.

Fred was a country boy at heart. He was always tinkering around in his garage and “Man Cave,” and he loved being outdoors and doing yard work.

Family was everything to him, and he truly loved spending time with his loved ones, especially gathering for family picnics and reunions. Fred was a kind, loving husband, father and grandfather. He was generous to a fault and would help anyone and everyone, never knowing a stranger. He will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Besides his wife, Fred is survived by two children, Anne Marie Downs of Austintown and Troy (Debbie) Downs of Richmond, Virginia. He also leaves behind a brother, David Downs of Austintown; two sisters, Beula “Bootsie” (Bob) Wells and Lori Rupp, both of New Bethlehem, Pa.; two beloved granddaughters, Rachael (Jordan) Hutchinson and Sarah Downs; and his beloved grand-dog, Maggie.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Mary Jane Miller and Marsha McCauley.

Private funeral services will be held at the Lane Funeral Home Austintown Chapel, 5797 Mahoning Ave., Austintown.

Fred will be laid to rest in the Brunstetter Cemetery, Austintown Township.

This obituary may be viewed and condolences can be sent by visiting www.lanefuneralhomes.com.

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