Donald "Don" Downing

Donald Downing, 77, passed away January 9, 2018, at his home in Riverton, WY. Don was born November 24, 1940, in Thermopolis, WY, to Darius H. & Maxine L. Downing. He attended school in Thermopolis and graduated from Hot Springs County High School in 1958. He had a life-long thirst for knowledge and teaching. He earned numerous college degrees in accounting and business administration, drafting, automotive, electronics and farrier science. He was an instructor at Central Wyoming College in farrier science, was a pilot, was a volunteer with Little Britches Rodeo, and many other pursuits. Don was enlisted in the Wyoming National Guard for 36 years, many of those years serving full time in administration. His love of horses led to his 35 year career as a farrier, earning him the name "The Gentle Horseshoer". Many people thought he was a true horse whisperer. His best days were spent caring for the horses and visiting with his clients. Don was a kind-hearted, soft spoken man with a great sense of humor, and he will be sadly missed by all. He was preceeded in death by his parents Darius and Maxine Downing, one infant sister, and one infant twin brother. He is survived by his sister, Roberta Keller of Wheatland, brother, Darrell (Carol) Downing of Cody, nephews Tim (Tracy) Downing, Gary (Jerrie) Downing, Shawn (Holly) Keller, and niece Stormy Miller and all of their families. A casual celebration of life will be held June 2, 2018, at 2pm at the Reach Foundation located at 622 N. 8th St. W, Riverton, WY. The family hopes that you can attend the celebration and share your favorite story of memory of Don over a cup of coffee. Or mail that story to: Roberta Keller, P.O. Box 446, Wheatland, WY, 82201.

On-line condolences may be made to the family at www.TheDavisFuneralHome.com.

Services under the direction of Davis Funeral Home.