David Downs Obituary

David G. Downs

May 11, 1947 - Feb 22, 2026

Sandusky

David G. Downs, 78, of Sandusky, passed away early Sunday morning, February 22, 2026, at Providence Care Center in Sandusky.

Born May 11, 1947, in Sandusky, the son of Denzel David and June Estell (Bauer) Downs. David was a 1965 graduate of Perkins High School. He was a veteran who had served honorably in the U.S. Navy on the U.S.S. Sargo, a submarine he had proudly served on during the Vietnam War.

David had worked at Delphi (formerly New Departure-Hyatt, Inc.), a division of General Motors, for nearly 40 years, retiring in 2006.

He enjoyed spending time with his family and grandchildren, and in years past, going out fishing. But especially he will be remembered by his family for how he loved to sit and lounge in his backyard and take in nature and spend endless time tending and feeding his birds; it was a hobby to him. David also enjoyed delivering meals for "Meals on Wheels," which he had done for nearly 30 years.

He was a life member of American Legion Post 83 and the V.F.W. Post 2529.

David is survived by his two daughters, Julie (Joey) Hofacker of Sandusky and Jennifer (Isidore "Isie") of Cleburne, Texas; and his son, Daniel (Susana) Downs of Castalia; eight grandchildren, Wayne Michael Fox, Cheyenne (Diamond) Cardona, Caleb Schlett, Tessa and Lillian Shank, Veronica Vaughn, Elliana and Lucas Downs; and a great-granddaughter, Amelia Fox; a sister, Dianne McGee; two brothers, Doug (Donna) Downs and Jeff (Valerie) Downs both of Sandusky; a sister-in-law, Theresa (Walker) Downs of Kalamazoo, Michigan; his nieces and nephews; and his companion, Nancy Stallkamp of Sandusky.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 50 years, Kathleen A. "Kathy" (Hiss) Downs; a daughter, Elizabeth "Liz" Downs; a great-granddaughter, Evelyn Fox; a brother, Dana Downs; and his stepmother, June Downs.

It was his wish to be cremated. A "Celebration of Life" gathering will be from 1-4 p.m. Saturday afternoon, February 28, 2026, at his home.

The family suggests that memorial contributions may be made in his memory to Meals on Wheels, 620 E. Water Street, Sandusky, OH 44870 or Wings of Hope, 4200 County Road 806, Cleburne, TX 76031.

Arrangements are entrusted to David F. Koch Funeral and Cremation Services, 520 Columbus Avenue, Sandusky.