Russell K. Downs Sr., 68, passed away of natural causes Wednesday, May 23, 2012, at his home in Randolph.
He was born February 16, 1944, in Warren, the son of Roger and Gladys (Haskins) Downs.
As a young man he worked on several farms. Later in life, Russell worked for Chester Tire in Newport, NH, for 16 years until he retired. Russell was well loved by many friends and family. He enjoyed NASCAR racing (especially Jeff Gordon) and baseball (he was a Red Sox fan) and he loved horses.
He is survived by two daughters, Terri Downs and Kandi Balch; a son, Russell Downs Jr. and his wife Dawn; a brother, Gene Downs and wife Bea; a sister Rae (Downs) Driscoll and husband Michael; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and his first wife and mother of his children, Barbara (Robinson) Swain. He was predeceased by his parents; sisters Shirley (Corlis) Pearce and Elizabeth (Corlis) Comes, and brothers Wallace Downs and Henry Corlis.
Graveside memorial services will be held Saturday, June 2, at 11 a.m. in the Warren Cemetery. There are no calling hours.
The family would like to thank his former wife, Janice Salls, for all the care she gave Russell.
Online condolences may be left at www.dayfunerals.com.
Day Funeral Home, Randolph, assisted with the arrangements.
