Donald Downey

Donald Ralph Downey, 85, of Clifton passed away at his residence on March 1, 2021.

Donald was never without a story to tell: whether it was about growing up in Texas, his brother and sister and all his aunts, uncles, cousins, and in-laws or his kids. Places he worked and occupations he had. And, his travels as a bus driver and the folks he encountered along his life's journey.

He was born on September 28, 1935, in Frost, Texas to Ralph Downey and Mamie Ruth Reed. Raised in Shallowater, Texas, he worked with his father in the cotton gin, crop dusted, lay pipeline and was a farmer and rancher. Later, he moved to Durango, Colorado where he delivered film and was a bartender. From there, he proceeded to work for Trailways out of Denver. In 1977 he relocated to Grand Junction where he continued to work for Trailways and Greyhound. After 37 years on the road, he retired in 2002 to enjoy spending his time at home, fishing, camping and looked forward to the hunting trip every year with his brother and his sons.

Donald is survived by his wife of 43 years Marjorie, his brother Larry (Loretta) Downey of Lubbock, Texas, sister Dolores (Calvin) Gustin of Athens, Texas, His children Frank (Sarah) Downey of Aurora, Colorado, Clay Downey of Reston, Virginia, Shannon
(Jeffery) Key of Aurora, Colorado, Christina (Dave) Bauguess of Grand Junction, Colorado, David Downey of Grand Junction, Colorado and his grandchildren Eli and Jeremiah Bauguess, and Devon Key.

He was preceded in death by his parents Ralph and Mamie Ruth Downey and son Wade Vaugh of Linden, Texas.
Donald Ralph Downey will be deeply missed by all who knew him.