Mr. FRANK DONALD DOWNING

FORT WORTH -- Frank Donald Downing, a loving and faithful son, passed away Monday morning, April 13, 2015. Mr. Downing was 68 years old. Memorial service: A celebration of Frank's life will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday in the sanctuary at Trinity Lutheran Church, 3721 Tulsa Way, with a reception following in the church's Fellowship Hall. Memorials: In lieu of flowers, consideration of contributions to Trinity Lutheran Church or a charity of choice, in his memory, is suggested. Born June 30, 1946, in Gross Gerau, Germany, Frank was the son of Jim and Helga Downing. A flight across the Atlantic on Oct. 7, 1947, brought Jim, Helga and Frank to their new life in America. Denver, Colo., was their home for the next eight years. Then Jim's work beckoned them to Texas. Frank was confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church on Nov. 5, 1961, and was a 1964 graduate of Azle High School. He went on to receive his bachelor's degree from the University of Texas at Austin and later, a master's degree in international economics from Cornell University. During the Vietnam War, Frank served in the U.S. Army as a Laotian translator in Udon Thani, Thailand. His economics degrees earned him employment with the U.S. Dept. of Commerce and McGraw-Hill in Washington, D.C. Upon retiring, Frank returned to Texas where he enjoyed his hobbies, nature, all wildlife, feeding and watching the birds and world affairs. In his younger years, he also enjoyed water skiing, snow skiing and fishing. He was preceded in death by his father. Survivors: In addition to his mother, Frank is survived by cousins and many dear friends. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Mr. FRANK DONALD DOWNING please visit our Sympathy Store.