Alice Downs Obituary

Hi, Mrs. Downs:
On the eve of traveling to Lawrence to visit friends, I learned of your passing. You and Cal were our host parents when Min and I came to KU as foreign students in 1972. You hosted the wedding reception at your home in Lawrence. There´re many sweet memories in the early 1970s with you and your family. Min passed away in 1999 in Connecticut. Attached is our wedding photo with you and your daughter on June, 1973 at your house. Tears may dry but memory never die. Your love for us will be appreciated so long as I live and is the living testament of your wonderful life while on earth. Love, David

Hi Alice, you´re still missed. I wish you were here to continue sharing your warmth, wisdom, and music.

I never had the privilege of meeting Alice. Today, I thought of Professor Downs, having been a student of his in the Spring of 1978. He gave me a confidence in myself that I had not yet experienced. I remain in his debt 44 years later. Prayers sincerely offered to the entire Downs Family.

Alice was a person of artistry, dedication, humility and grace. Our decades long collaboration defined my professional career at the University of Kansas. There is not another like her.

Ed Laut

Surrounding all of you in prayer!

Dear Cal, Allyson and Family,

We were extremely saddened upon learning of Alice's passing. It was if a bright light went out in our lives. Alice Downs represented humanity at its finest. She brought beauty, kindness, intelligence, humor and goodwill to everybody she touched. We will always remember the beautiful way she made the piano sing which she generously shared.

Even during her last years when she was physically limited, there was a sparkle in her eyes, enjoying life with a sense of humor and enthusiasm.

Thank you for being in our lives. We love you and will always miss you.

Norman, Inci and Peri Paige

Although I have known Cal and Alice many years The past 10 years visiting them often I have been inspired by the complete love and devotion between them. The many comments reflect the beauty and talent of Alice and all so true. However the partnership enhanced and reflected the character and integrity of both. I have been honored to be considered a friend. I will miss the Sunday afternoon visits.

Alice was a remarkable woman, a beautiful pianist and teacher as well as a blessing to all who worked with and knew her. I consider myself extremely fortunate to have been able to perform with her. David and I send our most sincere condolences to Cal and the whole family.

I'm so glad I knew Alice even a little. She spread cheer and her love of music each time I saw her. Thinking of Cal and the family.

It was such a pleasure to collaborate with Alice for seventeen years. We played many recitals together and I loved every minute of working with her. She was a remarkable person with a terrific sense of humor, a wonderfully sensitive musician, and a kind and supportive friend and colleague. Alice had such a positive influence on so many students and faculty in the KU School of Music.

There has been no one, no one, with the rare combination of love, intelligence, poise, sense of fun, and sophistication of Alice.

Cal, our prayers are with you and your entire family during this sad time.

Serving on the board of Concerts for Young People with Alice enriched my life, and our daughters, Jane and Helen, were delighted by Malooley and the Fear Monster.

My heart goes out all the family. Alice was an exceptional person. We extended family all cherish our memories with Alice...and her remarkable talent. It's been probably well over a decade since I saw her last.

But If I go where all is quiet and close my eyes, I can still hear her play.

My deepest sympathy goes out to the family. May you find much comfort from our God of comfort during this difficult time (Act 24:15)

My sympathy to the family. I loved taking piano lessons with Alice Downs.

I feel so privileged to have collaborated with Alice for nearly thirty years. She had unique qualities of humility, integrity and intense love of music, and our work together exploring and performing music defined my career at the University of Kansas.

Ed Laut

Cal, Allyson, & Kevin,
The Erland Family is saddened by the loss of Alice, a great musical talent both here in Lawrence & globally, for so many years. Her teaching contributions touched her many students, who will carry on her great musicality and performance capability.

Dear Cal, Allyson, and Kevin: I am so sad to read about Alice's passing. Prayers, hugs, and best positive energy to you all in this difficult time. I am forever grateful for the chance to tag along on your Greek vacation and get to know you. Alice was a force, leading with kindness, humor, and generosity. She touched many lives and will be sorely missed.

Cal, Allyson & Kevin:
I was so sad to hear from my father Earl that Alice had passed away. So truly sorry, and sending my deepest condolences--

Alice was a wonderful friend. My life is better because she was a part of it, and especially a musical part of it. (I remember that 35 years ago she taught me what a tritone substitution is.) Alice made the world a better place.
Don Marquis

Cal, We are so sorry to hear that beloved Alice has passed. Her joy and musicality will continue to inspire her students, and I feel lucky to have have experienced her candor and positive spirit. Love from Freddy and Lorna

I will always remember Alice playing the piano when I was over to play with Allyson and Kevin. She was such a beautiful and graceful person, and I enjoyed spending many hours at the Downs home. Keeping the family in my thoughts today. Hugs, Rachel Thomae (Rachel Anderson)

Alice touched so many lives with her kind and generous spirit. My children, Rachel and Bud Anderson learned classical music when they played with Allyson and Kevin. Sending loving thoughts and prayers to all of you.

Cal, Allison, and Kevin,

Pam and I are sorry to hear of Alice's passing. Pam always enjoyed sitting on the front porch and talking with Alice. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Cal, Allison, and Kevin

Pam and I are sorry to hear of Alice's passing. Pam always enjoyed visiting with Alice and talking of music. She was a grand lady.

We will keep you in our prayers.

Pam and Steve Gasper
Rio Frio, Tx