It is with a heavy heart we announce the passing of Daniel Downing. Born on February 17, 1953, Dan had a fulfilling life until he  passed away after a hard fought battle with cancer on January 8, 2026. 

 Dan lived a life of many changes.  He grew up an only child in Butte, Montana. He was beloved by his fellow classmates who lovingly refer to him  as, "Rubbs."  He met his wife of over 25 years  in Butte.  Dan  became a father in 1984, and they had a total of four children together.  They later relocated to Phoenix, AZ for a job transfer when he worked with a phone company.  After cutting ties with that job and parting ways with his wife, Dan went on to go back to school to learn about computers. He was a data analyst until he retired in 2018.

A man of simple pleasures, Daniel enjoyed the classic taste of McDonald's quarter pounders, always with a Pepsi on the side. He had a soft spot for many musical influences, often heard whistling along to his favorites. A fan of British comedies, he was also an admirer of action movies and greatly enjoyed playing the organ, even participating in competitions during his younger years.

A staunch supporter of the Phoenix Suns, the AZ Cardinals, and the Diamondbacks, Daniel enjoyed watching games as a season ticket holder for many years. His favorite getaways involved whale watching off the coast of San Diego and going to Las Vegas to savor prime rib and catch some shows. He could often be found sitting in the warm Arizona sun.

Known for his fiery personality, Dan was a spit fire who took no crap from anyone. He believed in standing up for oneself, even against corporations and government entities - a lesson he hoped to impart. His cat, Misha, one of his most loyal companions, will miss him dearly. Dan is preceded in death by his son, Andy Downing, mother Ann Marie Alger and his father John Vincent Downing. He leaves behind his beloved children Anne Downing, Kelly Downing, and Danny Downing, and his cherished grandchildren Owen Downing, Hunter Downing and Grace Little.

Dan's spirit, stories, and memories continue to be celebrated by his family and friends. 

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