W. Russell Downs

W. Russell Downs, 96, of Topeka, passed away on Monday, July 11, 2005 at Plaza West. He was born on July 24, 1908 in Wellington, Kansas and graduated with a BS Degree in Civil Engineering from Kansas State University. A Topeka resident since December 1, 1936, Mr. Downs was employed as a civil engineer for the Kansas Highway Commission for 39 years before retiring on September 29, 1972. He was a member of First Congregational Church. He married Myrtle Nix on September 3, 1933 in Wichita. She preceded him in death on April 3, 2005. Survivors include a son, Alan R. Downs and his wife, Carlene of Aberdeen, MD, a daughter, Jean D. Bobick and her husband, James C. of Aurora, CO, a brother, H. Robert Downs of Enumclaw, WA. and three grandsons, David Parker of Phoenix, AZ, James Bobick of New York, NY and Jeffrey R. Bobick of Austin, TX. A memorial inurnment service for both Russell and his wife, Myrtle will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday at Mount Hope Cemetery. Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel is in charge of arrangements.