Obituary of John Joseph Downs, III

John “Jack” Joseph Downs III, 71 passed away February 13, 2022, following a long battle with Multiple Myeloma. He fought courageously and continued to live his life to the fullest each day despite his illness. He was born in Plattsburgh, NY on September 18th, 1950, the son of John and Rita (Boswell) Downs. It brought great joy to his parents as their baby boy would join four older sisters on the dairy farm, followed by one younger sister. Jack graduated from Peru Central School and attended Clinton Community College. He pursued his career with the New York State Department of Corrections and served for 44 years. His first two years were in Attica and the remaining 42 years were in Dannemora until his retirement. Throughout his life Jack cared for his parents and operated the family farm. He was an excellent steward over the property and farm equipment, repairing anything that needed fixing. His work ethic was second to none. Using logs from the family farm, Jack built his log home adjacent to the farm and proudly raised his three boys there. He has fond memories of camping with them, especially at Taylor Pond. He was an avid spectator of the various sports they played and enjoyed attending their scouting events. His hobbies included hunting and fishing. Jack embraced his Catholic faith. Growing up, he served as an altar server at St. Patrick’s Church. As an adult, he was a member of the Knights of Columbus; a trustee of St. Patrick’s and sang in the choir at St. Augustine’s. Jack’s faith was the core of who he was. He made five pilgrimages to Medjugorje, Bosnia-Herzegovina to pray to the Blessed Mother. He led many people to the Lord and found his true path to holiness as a discerning prayer warrior for others in need. Jack is survived by his wife, Robin; also by his sons, John (Kayla and grandson Joel), James, and Andrew and their mother Cathy. Additionally, he is survived by Robin’s son, Tim Freydberg, as well by three sisters: Mary (David) Nisoff, Patricia (James) Hamlin and Jean (Jack) Drown, one brother-in-law, Roger Dorr and his dear friend, Karen Ryan. He also has many special cousins, nieces, and nephews who will continue his legacy of faith for years to come. Jack was predeceased by his loving parents, John and Rita, as well as his sisters, Frances Downs Dorr and Adele Downs Rabideau, and one brother-in-law, David Rabideau. Calling hours will be Thursday, February 17, 2022 from 4 to 7 PM at the Hamilton Funeral Home, 294 Mannix Road, Peru, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, February 18, 2022 at 11 AM at St. Augustine’s Church in Peru, NY with Fr. Bill Edwards (retired) celebrating and Fr. Pedro “J” Edgardo N de la Rosa, concelebrating. Burial will follow in the parish cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Jack’s name to Hope Lodge, 237 East Avenue, Burlington, VT or to the St. Patrick’s Endowment or Mother Cabrini Endowment, sent to St. Augustine’s Church in Peru. Arrangements are in the care of the Hamilton Funeral Home, 294 Mannix Road, Peru, 643-9055.