Mike, 66, of Tega Cay, SC, passed away November 11, 2014. He was born July 23, 1948 in Wilson, NC to the late John Pershing Downing and Gloria Creech Downing. Mike graduated from Jacksonville High School in 1966 and received his Bachelor Degree from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1970.
Mike was in the commercial insurance industry for more than 40 years. He was employed at The Hartford for 33 years, then, following a brief retirement, returned to work with St. Paul, Travelers, W.R Berkley and finally with Zurich NA Insurance company. Mike enjoyed working with all his co-workers and was admired for his integrity and business knowledge.
Mike devoted his life to the Lord and was active with his church and Sunday School class at Christ Lutheran Church. He was especially proud of his participation and mentoring at Via De Cristo at Lutheridge campus in Arden, NC.
More than anything, Mike loved and adored his family. Everyone who knew Mike knew he was especially proud of each of his children. Proud of their independent spirit, their character and their growth into young adults.
Mike is survived by his wife Elizabeth (Liz) Downing; daughter, Kate Downing of Raleigh; daughter, Rebekah Downing of Winston-Salem; son, Joseph Downing of Charlotte; brother, Mark Downing of Mint Hill; sister-in-law, Debora Downing of Mint Hill; nephew, Matthew Downing; niece, Rachel Downing; brother-in-law, James Hirst of Charlotte; sister-in-law, Kim Hirst of Charlotte; nephew, Sean Hirst; nephew; Trevor Hirst; sister-in-law, Leslie Hirst of Providence, R.I.; and stepmother, Olive Downing of Jacksonville, NC.
Mike loved to travel with family and friends. Europe was a favorite destination, visiting England, France, Austria, Switzerland and Italy. Mike traveled to the Netherlands and Belgium as well. Mike also loved exploring the US, spending time with his old friend Jim Hill as they visited many baseball parks across the country. Mike loved Disney World and made many trips there, before AND after the arrival of his children! He recently traveled to Universal on a special trip with his son Joe.
The family of Mike Downing appreciates all the love and support from many friends and family. Mike was suddenly taken, but he is enjoying being with the Lord, his parents, and especially friends who went too early, Jerry Darnel, Bill Cassidy and Jim Hill.
A memorial service will be held at Christ Lutheran Church in Charlotte on Monday, November 17th at 2:00 PM. A reception at the church will immediately follow the service.
In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be sent to A Dove’s Nest in care of Christ Lutheran Church, 4519 Providence Rd., Charlotte, NC 28226.
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