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Earl Downing Obituary

Earl Lyn Downing

Earl Lyn Downing passed away March 27, 2013 in Cox South Hospital, Springfield, Mo. He was born August 13, 1921 in Ava, Mo. to Jesse and Lena (Vinson) Downing.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers: Lawrence, Glenn, Kenny; stepson, Jay James; and ex-wife, Pat Stillwell.

Earl is survived by two daughters: Nancy Downing and Jana (Jerry) McFarland; daughter-in-law, Marian James; and two sisters: Lila Knight and Lucile (Bucky) Howard. His six grandchildren are: Justin Schoenrock, Josh (Christy) Wagoner, Jana Jorgensen, Monte James, Jesse (Makaela) James, and Jayleen (Patrick) Harvey. Earl had nine great-grandchildren. Earl is also survived by his loving companion of twenty-three years, Ethel Caldemeyer and her two daughters, Janet Palmer and Linda (Clyde) Gibson. Earl was loved by many nieces and nephews who affectionately called him "Uncle Buster".

During his youth, Earl rode in rodeos and worked in CCC camps. He served as a Marine in World War II in the South Pacific area (including Guadalcanal). In 1950, during the Korean conflict, Earl was called back to active duty for seven months. He received an honorable hardship discharge and returned to work on his farm. Earl retired from his job as a security guard at Sunflower Army Ammunition Plant in 1983.

A graveside service will be Saturday, April 13, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. in Turkey Creek Cemetery, Ava, Mo.

Memorials may be made to VFW.

Please sign this guestbook at Obituaries.LJWorld.com.

Published by Lawrence Journal-World on Apr. 17, 2013.
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