Herbert F. Downey

Herbert F. Downey
Appleton

Age 83, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, March 30, 2005 at Appleton Medical Center. Herbert was born on the family farm in Mackville, WI, on May 1, 1921, son of the late William and Mary (Schwartz) Downey. He attended St. Edward Catholic Grade School and graduated from Appleton High School in 1939. Herbert was proud to serve his country in the U.S. Marines from 1943 until 1946, during WWII and was involved in the invasion of Peleliu. On September 20, 1952, Herbert married Selma Seifert at St. Edwards Catholic Church, Mackville. She preceded him in death on May 16, 2001. Herbert was employed at Miller Electric for 37 years, retiring in 1976. He was a founding member of St. Thomas More Catholic Parish. Herbert was also a member of the American Legion, Post #38, Appleton. Over the years, Herbert was happy to volunteer as a bell ringer for the Salvation Army. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed all sports. Herbert loved spending time in his backyard and reading. The greatest joys of his life were his grandchildren and he will be greatly missed by them. Herbert is survived by his daughter, Susan (Eric) Shelkey, Bozeman, Montana; his grandchildren, Kirsa and Kari; a brother, Robert, Milwaukee; brother-in-law, Tom Fiedler, Tustin, California; sister-in-law, Myra McHugh, Madison; and close friends and neighbors, Jane (Eric) Hanson; Ron (Sandy) Thiery and Todd (Tina) Zolkowski. He is further survived by many nieces and nephews. Herbert was preceded in death by his brothers, John and Willard and sisters, Florence Fiedler and Mildred Schaal. The funeral mass will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Tuesday, April 5, 2005, at ST. THOMAS MORE CATHOLIC CHURCH, 1810 North McDonald Street, Appleton, with Rev. Gerald Falk officiating. Visitors will be received at the funeral home on Monday, April 4, from 4 until 7 p.m. and again at the church on Tuesday, from 10 a.m. until the time of service. A Prayer Service will be held at the funeral home on Monday, at 7 p.m. The interment with Military Honors will be held at Riverside Cemetery, Appleton. As an expression of sympathy, a memorial fund is being established.

WICHMANN FUNERAL HOME
537 North Superior Street
Appleton 920-1231