Robert J. Downing, 68, passed away on Thursday February 23rd, at the Albany Medical Center, after a courageous battle with leukemia.  He resided with his wife Cheryl (Lamson) Downing on Coleville Road in Bennington.  Robert and Cheryl resided in Hoosick Falls, NY for many years.

Robert was born on May 16, 1954, in Bennington, VT, son of the late Francis H. and Nina (Gates) Downing.  He graduated from Hoosick Falls Central School, where he was a star cross country runner.  Robert held multiple positions with Price Chopper for forty-six years.  He was also a fifty + year member at the First Baptist Church in Hoosick Falls, NY, where he served on the Board of Trustees, Deacons and Pastorial Relations.  Robert was also very involved with the Hoosick Falls Community serving on the Village Board, a Cub Scout Cubmaster for Pack #64, and an Assistant Scoutmaster for Troop # 65 for many years.

Survivors other than his wife Cheryl include their children Joshua Downing of Dallas, TX, Nicholas Downing of Bennington, VT, Autumn Tucker of Granville, NY and Amie Thompson of Alabama, his brother Frank (Diane) Downing of Hoosick Falls, NY, also eight grandchildren, three nephews, and a great grandchild.  Robert was predeceased by two great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be Tuesday February 28th, at 10:00 am, from the Mahar Funeral Home, 43 Main Street in Hoosick Falls, NY.  Burial will follow the service at Maple Grove Cemetery in Hoosick Falls.

Relatives and friends may call at the Mahar Funeral Home, on Monday February 27th, from 4:00 – 7:00pm.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Bennington Cancer Crusaders through the funeral home.