Michael James Downie

After losing his battle with lung cancer, Michael James Downie, 72, went peacefully to be with the Lord Sunday evening August 27, 2017 at Sharon Care Center in Centralia, Washington. He was born July 3, 1945 in Spokane, Washington to James and Ruth (Ofelt) Downie. He was the middle son of three boys. At a young age his family moved to Naches Heights where he attended Cowiche Grade School. The family then moved to Yakima where Mike finished grade school, junior high and graduated from West Valley High School.

He enlisted in the United States Air Force and was stationed at Brooks Air Force Base in Texas. He was accepted into the National Aeronautics and Space program for research at Ames Research Center at Moffatt Field, California, where he proudly served his country. After his military duty he returned to Yakima and worked for the Dolson Company in commercial finance for a number of years. As his health began to fail, he found out that his military research and experimentation had taken a toll on his body and received military disability. He loved and adored his service dog Yuca. He was a member of the American Legion and Vietnam Veterans of America.

Michael was a very enthusiastic Seahawk and NASCAR fan. He loved to spend hours on his computer researching things and topics. He enjoyed collecting stamps, coins and sports paraphernalia.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his two brothers, Rev. David and Marilyn Downie of Tenino, WA; Richard and Laurie Downie of Portland, OR; many nieces, nephews and cousins. His great sense of humor, gentle and kind spirit will be greatly missed by family and friends.

The family wants to thank the staff of Sharon Care and Hospice for their very kind, compassionate and loving care given to Michael.

A Memorial service will be held Saturday, September 23, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. at Keith & Keith Funeral Home, 902 W. Yakima Ave., Yakima, WA. To celebrate the life of Michael and share a memorial visit www.keithandkeith.com.