DOWNS: It is with profound sadness that the family of Albert Ernest (Ernie) Downs announces his passing on Saturday August 4, 2012 at the Cypress Regional Hospital in Swift Current, SK. Ernie was born at the Red Cross Outpost Hospital in Endeavour SK on June 30, 1942. He is survived by his wife Sharon of 35 years, sons Daniel (Larissa, children Elsa and Carthur) and David (children Jayden and Hailey), daughters Dara (Jeff) Jansen and Darrelle (Leif, daughter Nicole). He is also survived by his brothers Ralph (Doreen) and Barry as well as nephews Albert, James, Brett (Justina and great nephew Brayden). Ernie was predeceased by a brother Arthur in infancy and his parents Albert and Gertrude Downs. Ernie attended Etiomamie school for grades one and two, Lilian Rural school for grades three to eight, and graduated from Sturgis Composite High School in 1959. He combined attending the University of Saskatchewan and working for Canadian National Railway in Northern Manitobia until 1964 when received his Bachelor of Commerce. He articled with Touche Ross in Saskatchewan and received his Chartered Accountant designation in 1967. In 1969 he took on the comptroller position with the City of Swift Current and in 1971 he became a partner in the Chartered Accountant firm of Burroughs, Weber, Bowman, Gross and Downs. This firm subsequently merged with Meyers Norris Penny and Ernie retired from Meyers Norris Penny in 1997. In 2005 he decided to try his hand at teaching and became an instructor for the business program at Great Plains College. In 2009, the chartered accountants of Saskatchewan awarded Ernie the Distinguished Community Service Award which recognized his leadership and service to the community of Swift Current and the province of Saskatchewan. His community involvement included the Swift Current Minor Baseball Association where he served as coach, umpire, executive and president. As well he served as treasurer of the local Kinsmen Club. In 1987 he was appointed to the Board of Directors of Canada Post and served until 1993. He assisted in the creation of the Chinook Television Association, served as a director for the United Way and as a volunteer at the 2010 World Women's Curling Championship. Ernie loved politics and was deeply involved including a long term as Returning Officer for the federal Swift Current riding. Ernie loved his God. He was treasurer and a member of the executive committee of vestry for St. Stephen's Anglican Church. He also belonged to the brotherhood of St. Andrew. He found great joy in doing church work especially visiting the sick in hospital. One of the greatest loves of Ernie's life were the numerous family fishing trips to Northern Saskatchewan. The funeral services was held on Thursday August 9, 2012 at St. Stephen's Anglican Church with the Reverend David Nevett officiating. The internment was held at Hillcrest Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Canadian Diabetes Association. Warren's Funeral Home were entrusted with the arrangements. For further information call 773-8831 or 1-800-267-6606 or visit our website at www.warrensfuneralhome.com and express your sympathy to family members in our book of condolences.