Allen Neal Downing, a former resident of Copeland, passed away peacefully at the age of 93 on December 16, 2024, in Julesburg, Colorado. Born in Grant City, Missouri, on September 21, 1931, Allen was the son of Wm. Leslie "Shock" Downing and Eula Fern (Hibbs) Downing.

Allen began his farming journey at just nine years old, working for his uncle with a horse-drawn plow before moving on to a Farmall tractor.  He spent much of his youth roller skating, becoming a sought-after partner among the girls. Country music held a special place in Allen's heart, and he was known for his singing, dancing, and impressive yodeling of "Lovesick Blues"—rivaling Hank Williams.  A natural athlete, Allen excelled in activities like water and snow skiing, demonstrating remarkable strength and agility.  His friendly, laid-back demeanor was like a magnet to both children and animals.   He was cherished for his quick wit and ability to make others laugh.

At age 21, Allen moved from Missouri to Copeland, to work as a farmhand, where he met his future wife, Barbara.  In 1951, he joined the USAF at SAC Turner Air Force Base in Albany, GA, serving as a crew chief on the F-84F.  During his four years and four months Allen was stationed for a year in Japan at the time of the Korean Conflict.  Allen married Barbara Kaye Reese on January 23, 1955, and together they raised five children. He was an active member of Copeland Christian Church, serving many years as a Deacon, and belonged to the Copeland American Legion. Allen continued farming until around 1975 and developed an interest in collecting and restoring antique cars and parts.  He and Barbara enjoyed memorable trips, including one to Colorado on his restored 1948 Indian motorcycle.  Allen was recognized as top salesman by Asgrow Seed and earned a trip to Hawaii for his achievements in agricultural chemical sales.  He also served as City Manager for the City of Copeland.

Allen's passion for helping others with manual projects led him to establish Downing Enterprises, a contracting business specializing in trenching, digging, boring, and backhoe work for laying underground pipe.  He was a regular participant in local parades, often driving antique vehicles or showcasing his handmade Waupun Windmills.

Allen was preceded in death by his daughter Julie Peterson, great-granddaughter Danielle Stevens, parents, and siblings: Berle, Veldon (Helen), Paul (Blanche), Harold, Bob (Sally), Gail, Norman, Willa, Larry (Virginia), and Rose; parents-in-law Victor E Reese & Jennie (Somerville); brothers and sisters-in-law: Robert (Bonnie) Reese, Bette (Gabby) Hartnett, Virginia (Danny) Wagner; Ron (Jo) Reese, Sterling (Pat) Reese, Jerry (Sonya) Reese, Roger Reese. He is survived by his wife; children; Greg (Shelly) Downing of Copeland; Brenda (Kevin) Stoppel of Julesburg, CO; Karen Wade of Vero Beach, FL; Steve (Teri) Downing of El Dorado; Grandchildren, Joy (Charles) Peterson Lightfoot of Las Cruces, NM, Jennie (Andrew) Peterson Ramey of Vinegrove, KY, Ariel Peterson of Wichita, Kristi Downing Stevens of Kingwood, TX, Reesa (Brian) Legleiter of Hays, Allen Wade, FL, Andrew Wade, IA, Kasie Wade, Tarpon Springs, FL, Meaghen Campbell; numerous Meairs step-grandchildren; Great-grandchildren, lovingly known as "GG'pa" or "Gramps," include Cadence, Scout & Riley Lightfoot and Valencia Tillman, Zoe & Noah Ramey, Abigail Stevens, Seren, Seth & Sela Sumaya, and Summer Hackworth. Allen is also survived by his sister Donna Finley of Albany, MO; brother-in-law Victor Reese of Bakersfield, CA; sisters-in-law Verona Reese, Lois, Elaine & Shirley Downing; son-in-law Vic (Linda) Peterson of Englewood; and numerous nieces, nephews, and close friends.

Memorial service for Allen will be at the Copeland Christian Church on Sunday, August 31, 2025 at 3:00 PM. Thank you Swaim Funeral Chapel for the arrangements. In lieu of flowers the family asks those who would like to pay tribute to Allen's life make donations to SCHC Nursing Home, Copeland Christian Church or Copeland American Legion in care of Swaim Funeral Chapel PO Box 421, Montezuma, KS 67867. Guestbook to sign, thoughts and memories to share, and a slideshow of some highlights of Allen's life can be found at www.swaimfuneralhome.com