Melvin Lewis Downing is remembered by the Kimberley community

Melvin Lewis Downing (July 29, 1943–December 19, 2025) died after a battle with cancer; a memorial gathering is scheduled for December 27, 2025 at McPherson Funeral Home in Kimberley and will be livestreamed.

Melvin Lewis Downing, born July 29, 1943, passed away on December 19, 2025 after a period of illness with cancer. He spent much of his life in Kimberley, British Columbia, where he worked at the Cominco concentrator and served his community in several roles. He was a long-time husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, and was known locally for his humour, generosity and for playing Santa at community events. His service with Kimberley Search and Rescue and his years as coroner were notable parts of his community involvement. Notable facts: - Birth and death: July 29, 1943 – December 19, 2025. - Family: Devoted husband of 61 years to Carole, and father of John Downing, Cindy (Randy) McCloskey, and Mike (Chantal) Downing; grandfather and great-grandfather survivors are named in the obituary. - Community roles: Long career at the Cominco concentrator, served as coroner (nicknamed "Toetag"), and volunteered with Kimberley Search and Rescue; also remembered for playing the local Santa. - Early act of bravery: As a child he helped guide family members to safety during a house fire and was later acknowledged with a letter from Prime Minister Louis St. Laurent. - Funeral arrangements and requests: A Memorial Gathering was scheduled for December 27, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at McPherson Funeral Home in Kimberley and the gathering was announced as livestreamed at https://www.hdezwebcast.com/show/melvin-downing-service; the obituary noted donations to a local Kimberley charity in lieu of flowers. Summary: Mr. Downing is remembered for long-standing community involvement and a warm, generous presence among family and neighbours. The memorial gathering on December 27, 2025, and the livestream are the next listed arrangements.