Obituary: Frank A. Downey, 91, Of Milford

Frank A. Downey, 91, of Milford, CT, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 22, 2025. Born on June 8, 1933, in Holyoke, MA, Frank lived a life defined by faith, resilience, hard work, philanthropy, and deep dedication to his family. He was predeceased by his parents, Frank A. Downey and Mildred Mannix Downey, and his sister, Mary Drohan.

A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Frank cherished his family above all else. He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Augusta “Dusty” Downey; his children Kenneth (Nancy), Rick, Diane (Walter), and Chris (Tracey); his beloved grandchildren Laura, Christine, Sara, Patrick, Ryan, Braden, Amanda, Michael, Matthew, Gary, Jessica, and Austin; and his great-granddaughters Zoey and Hailey.
Frank grew up in Holyoke, MA, where he enjoyed playing football and fishing. His high school football career was highlighted by his team winning the Western Massachusetts Football Championship in 1951, which led them to the Peanut Bowl in Georgia on New Year’s Day. He continued his football journey at Amherst College, where he started at left tackle for all four years. His teammates became lifelong friends, and their reunions were always filled with joy and laughter.

Following college, Frank proudly served his country as a jet fighter pilot in the U.S. Air Force. He exhibited incredible leadership skills securing him the “ace” position of his squadron. One highlight of his service was being stationed in England, where he coached the base football team; he loved sharing stories of their undefeated season and flying the team to the European Championship in France. However, Frank always said that his most meaningful moment was meeting the love of his life, Dusty, and the cherished family they built together more than anything.

Frank was a determined entrepreneur, founding and growing three successful companies in the electronics industry:
-Westwood Associates, a sales organization for electronic manufacturers in Western Massachusetts.
-Townsend Industries, a circuit board manufacturing company in Orange, CT.
-Westwood Associates, an international electronic sales and distribution company with offices worldwide.

Frank and Dusty raised their four children in Orange, CT, before fulfilling their dream of living by the water in Milford. Frank retired at age 68, spending his time boating, fishing, enjoying winters in Jupiter, FL, and most importantly, watching his family grow. He took great pride in attending his grandchildren’s special events and sports games.

A man of strong faith, Frank and Dusty were loyal friends and benefactors of Notre Dame High School for over 50 years. Even after their sons graduated, he remained actively involved and served on the board. Their unwavering generosity made an ND education possible for many. His commitment to ensuring as many families as possible could benefit from a Catholic Holy Cross education was truly unmatched. The Downey Family Scholarship Fund supports numerous worthy students every year and has always been at the forefront of their philanthropy.

In lieu of flowers, gifts in Frank's memory may be sent to Notre Dame High School to support the Downey Family Scholarship Fund, which provides financial assistance to deserving students with demonstrated need. Frank believed deeply in the transformative power of a Catholic education. This scholarship will continue his legacy of helping young people achieve their educational aspirations, regardless of their financial circumstances.

Gifts can be made to:
Notre Dame High School
Downey Family Scholarship
One Notre Dame Way, West Haven CT 06516
www.NotreDameHS.com/Downey

We would also like to express our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated team of caregivers for their exceptional care and kindness towards our Dad: Thank you to Debbie, Hannah, Karen, Libby, Sheryl and Sharon. Yale New Haven, Health At-Home Hospice was also very caring and attentive to our dad most especially Nurse Coco.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Friday, March 28, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Mary’s Church, 70 Gulf Street, Milford. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM, followed by interment at Orange Center Cemetery.

To light a candle or leave a condolence in his memory, please visit www.CodyWhiteFuneralService.com