It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of a fantastic husband, father, brother, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle and friend, in his 88th year, at his home in O’Regan’s in the Codroy Valley on March 22. Predeceased by his wife of 51 years, Jean, in Nov. 1996; parents Alban & Rose (Young) Downey; brothers: Kevin, Walter, Robert, Fintan & Aloysius. Bert will be lovingly remembered by his family Arlene (Richard) MacIsaac, Alice (Dennis) Keeping in the Codroy Valley, Ken (Shirley) Downey, Calgary, AB, Charles (Regina) Downey, Corner Brook, NL, Brenda Tobin (Ed Dyke) in Kitchener ON; grandchildren: Philip, Glenn, Susan, Cindy, Jason, Denny, Randy, Ashley, Gerry, Arianna Sherman, Melanie, Travis & Trevor and their spouses; great grandchildren: Brandon, Kaitlyn, Damien, Tyler, Chloe, Mya & James; brother Ralph & sister Margaret in Nova Scotia; sisters-in-law Bridget & Lucy Downey. Also a large circle of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Bert had many accomplishments that he was very proud of in his own humble way. During World War II he spent 6 years in the Royal Air Force with his primary task being a Wireless Operator. He relayed many stories of his time overseas and kept constant contact with many of the people he was billeted with. He sold many of the first vehicles on the South West Coast as a car salesman for Wall Gale, travelled to many communities as a salesman for Battiste Wholesale, developed a very large clientele and many friends in his 30 plus years with Johnson Insurance. While he was working for Battiste Wholesale and Johnson Insurance he also operated his own business in Upper Ferry “Bert’s Confectionary”. Even with his “full” commitment to three jobs Bert was always available for his family, friends and community. Those wishing to pay respects may do so at St. Anne’s Church in Upper Ferry, on Wed. between 2:00 & 4:00 & 7:00 to 9:00 PM. A celebration of his life will be held at St. Anne’s Church on Thursday March 27, at 3:00 PM. Officiated by Father Lee Lainey. Internment will follow at Mount St. Thomas Cemetery. If so desired, donations may be made to St. Anne’s Parish Cemetery Fund or a charity of one’s choice. Funeral arrangements are in the care of East Haven Funeral Home, Port aux Basques, 695-2300. (www.easthavenfuneralhome.com)