Mr. Peter D. Downey, age 53, died Wednesday, August 27, at his brother Ralph’s home in Clayton, where he was under the care of his entire family and the Hospice of Jefferson County.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date at a time to be announced within the next few weeks.
Pete was born May 9, 1961, to Ralph Downey Sr. and Betty Stage Downey. Raised in Clayton, he attended Clayton Elementary and T.I. Central High School, Class of 1979.
He was a graduate of Oswego State University, Class of 1983.
Pete loved hockey and was a past goalie for the Clayton Pirates and Oswego State Lakers.
His work and his travels took him from Providence, Rhode Island, to San Diego, California. Moving back to Dexter, he enjoyed his friends and his home with a Lake Ontario view.
Pete was employed by Nexstar in Watertown, where he sold advertising and made commercials.
He is survived by the “Light of his Life,” daughter, 7 year old Julianna Jade Downey, Watertown; two brothers, Ralph Jr. (Billie Ann), and Ed Downey, all of Clayton; a sister Peggy (Mike) Bechaz of Colorado; Nephew Jon (Cherie) and their son, Hunter Downey; nephew Jamie Downey; a niece Heather (Terry) and son Kyle Craddock of Clayton.
Donations to Hospice of Jefferson County, 1398 Gotham Street Road, Watertown, NY 13601, would be greatly appreciated.
katherine patterson
Peter,
You have been a great influence on many lives. Your fight was honorable. In your honor we will drink martinis. RIP Peter.
Michel "Ben" Rainville
Peter you were a very kind soul and made us all laugh til we cried! You will always be remembered in our family, til we meet again my friend!
Lisa Baker
Peter will forever hold a special place in my heart. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and especially to his young daughter.
Rob Grant
My commiserations to the family, particularly to my childhood friend, Peggy. Farewell my friend.
Ed and Susan Flynn
“Jim Tom” – You will be missed by the Flynn’s! The garage will seen empty without you this winter and “the point” will never be the same without your presence. You were a great neighbor and friend and will forever hold a special place in our hearts. Until we meet again…
Holly Boname
I had the privilege of working with Peter at ABC50 for over two years. Peter was filled with adventure and love for life and it is that which I will always remember him by. The North Country lost a good man but his spirit will forever remain on the water and with those he loved. Sending my love to his family during this difficult time.
kathy scott
Our deepest sympathy to your entire family for such a great loss and especially to our sister- in -law Peggy.
Gabrielle Thompson
Peter,
The world has lost a fun and kind spirit. The ability you possessed to make people laugh is one that cannot be replaced. You will be fondly remembered and greatly missed.
Rest in peace, Dear Friend.
The Colligan's
Petie, you were an amazing man with a heart of gold to say the least. In all the years we knew you, everyday was lived to its absolute fullest. Your spirit will hold a very special place in our hearts along with countless unforgettable memories at The Lake. You were a genuine friend and neighbor and a great father to JJ. You will be greatly missed.
Thomas F. LaClair
May the memories of Pete help us all find peace. I attended K-12 with Pete and had the opportunity to meet with him several times since graduation. I admired his talent on skates and his ability to get along with so many. Many high school memories so vivid. It is so very sad that he was taken from this world years ahead of his time. He now has a higher calling to fulfill. May God Bless his daughter, family and closest friends during this difficult time.
Kathy Bray
Our deepest condolences to the whole family. Prayers and love to all.
Amy Gilmore Hanson
Peter – I go back to a time when you were my neighbor and my bus buddy. I remember so many times in your cellar, watching movies while we talked and laughed endlessly about the lives we would live. Funny we both ended up in dexter. I think of our days in the radio business and how your spirit always made people that came into your path smile. Your time in the ice as your team made States and the thrill of the glory. When I ran into you at Shangrila and we hugged and chatted like it was 1979. You will always be remembered for the genuine kind friend you were to all of us. Your courageous battle was amazing and that’s how you shall remain…..AMAZING father, son, brother, teamate and friend. Soar with the angels PD!!
Michael Hayes
Peter,
You will be sadly missed by many. Your intelligence and good heart were the basis of many successful relationships. In your absence the St. Lawrence river and Lake Ontario will never be the same. Pillar Pt. will be haunted by this loss… My most sincere condolences to the Downey family. Mike
Robert Riley
Peter: The ultimate Sales Manager at Ch 50 WWTI, when I worked for him there. A great guy professionally and socially. You will be deeply missed and always thought of. My prayers and thoughts to your sweet daughter and the rest of your family. RIP brother and bottoms up!!
Nancy Robbins
I am soo sorry to hear of Peter’s death. He was an amazing dad!!!!!!
Taylor Chapin
This time of year is making me miss you more than ever right now. My first Christmas with out in 6 years. I miss you dearly, Peter! Love you so much <3
Julianna Downey
Daddy I miss you so much its almost to the time we’re you died I <3 U I listened to see you again and I'll see you again soon I love you
Love
Honey Bunny