Brian Downey Sr., Legion Post 17 member

Brian Jeffery Downey Sr., 65, of Lincoln, formerly of Newark, died at home Saturday, June 7, 2014. He was born in Wilmington, the son of the late William and Elaine (Kennedy) Downey.

Brian served in the U.S. Marine Corp. during the Vietnam War from 1968-71. He was a member of the Walking Dead, The 1/9, 1st Batallion 9th Marines. Mr. Downey worked for Otis Elevator, retiring in 1996. He was a member of the American Legion Post 17 in Lewes, and Delaware American Vets, which he loved and was so proud to serve his country. He loved riding his Harley, golfing, fishing and swimming.

He is survived by his wife, Joy Fiorentino Downey; four children, Jeffery Brian Downey Jr., and wife Deena, Brian Jeffery Downey and wife Lisa, all of Wilmington, Deena Downey of Florida and Bradford Downey of Pennsylvania; a stepson, John "JD" DiDemenicis of Lincoln; siblings, Kathy LaFashia, Karen Stoppel and Robin Satterly and husband Jeff, all of Wilmington, Bobby Downey and wife, Susan of Texas, Michael Downey and wife Denise of Wilmington and Blair Downey of Dover; eight grandchildren; and one great-grandchild and several nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, June 16, at St. Ann's Catholic Church, 2013 Gilpin Ave., Wilmington, with interment to follow at Delaware Veterans Cemetery, Bear.

Flowers will be appreciated or donations me be sent to Delaware Hospice 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963. Arrangements handled by Short  Funeral Services.