Walter Daniel Downey, Jr.

Walter Daniel Downey, Jr., 82, of Jupiter, FL and Boothbay, ME, died peacefully at home on March 23, 2023, following a hard-fought battle with pancreatic cancer. Walt was born April 4,1940 in Stamford, CT to Walter (“Pat”) and Mary Ann (DeVito) Downey. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Sister Roberta Downey, and an infant son, Todd Michael, born to Walt and his first wife, Marie (Socci) Downey. Walt is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Sue O’Connor, and their 3 children: Caroline Downey, Conor Downey, and Finn Downey; 3 children from his marriage to Marie: Shane Downey (Lisa), Noelle Wade (Bill), and Bryan Downey (Julie); 7 grandchildren: Shane Michael Downey (Stephanie), Megan Spangler (Jordan), Katie Matzke (Chris), Sarah Wade, Jennifer Wade, Bryce Downey and Logan Downey; and 2 great-grandchildren: Jordan Spangler and Teagan Downey. He also is survived by his brother, Brian Downey (Cris), nephew, Kevin Downey (Danielle), great-niece, Calla Downey, and a large extended family. Walt was a 1963 graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and served as a U.S. Army Captain during the Vietnam War. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and the Army Commendation Medal in recognition of his achievements. Walt then had a long career with Connecticut-based Southern New England Telephone Company, where he retired as a Division Manager. Walt loved his family and was extremely proud of their numerous accomplishments. He also enjoyed entertaining his children, grandchildren, and many friends with jokes and stories, interspersed with his favorite sayings, such as “You can’t fix stupid!”. His wide variety of interests included flyfishing, golf, travel, nature, music (from soft rock to opera to choral), all things Irish, military history, politics, geography and maps, reading, and puttering in the garden and the garage. He took great pleasure in the little things: Dunkin’ Donuts, pancakes and waffles, blueberry pie, a strong cocktail, and a good cigar. Walt was a happy warrior to the very end, staunch conservative, man of faith, and true American patriot. A funeral Mass, interment of his ashes, and a celebration of his life will be held at West Point at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sisters of Saint Joseph of Chambery ` (www.sistersofsaintjoseph.org).

Walter Daniel Downey, Jr.

April 4, 1940 - March 23, 2023