Lester Francis Downing Jr.

On the morning of February 1, 2022, Lester F. Downing, Jr. (Les) departed this life after 89 years, to be with his Heavenly Father above and the many others who have gone on before him. He will be painfully missed, but the memories will be treasured by those who loved and knew him best.
Les was born on July 2, 1932 in Wichita, Kansas to Lester Francis Sr. and Edith Downing and was the oldest of four children.
Les has been a devoted and dedicated Christian for most of his life. He was a member of the North "M" Street Church of Christ in Tulare, CA and also prior years in Delano and Stockton, CA. He was always a ready and willing servant to help with the Lord's church, any time he was needed or called upon. Les always went above and beyond in all aspects of service. He will truly be missed by his church family.
In his earlier years, Les served and became a veteran of the United States Air Force. In the later years, he continued his interest in airplanes and became a skilled and most enthusiastic pilot. He and his wife,
Helen, enjoyed many flights and trips over the years in their Piper Cherokee. His grandkids and other family members delighted in an "invitation flight" with him as well.
Les had a special touch in growing beautiful roses, plants and trees in his yard. He also was great at fixing, repairing and building just about anything put before him. He obtained amazing talent and skills, which became most valuable to him while he was employed at J.l. Case Company as the service manager. During his many years working for the company, he worked at the Delano, Tulare and Stockton branches until his retirement of almost 35 years of dedication and service.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lester and Edith Downing, brothers, Dale Downing and Gene Downing, a sister, Joyce Butcher, a grandson, Sean Downing and son-in-law, Robert Avila.
Survivors of Les are his adored and beloved wife of 67 years, Helen Downing of Tulare, daughters, Pam Avila (Tulare) and Brenda Bethel (Gary) of Fresno, and his son, Kurt Downing of Tulare.
Les was greatly loved and will be missed by his 10 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. He was lovingly known to many as Dad, Grandpa, Pop, Papa, and G-pa.
Many family members and friends know how truly "blessed" they have been to have enjoyed such a
"special" and "great" man in their lives. "Until we meet again, we will hold him in our hearts, always." A private memorial celebration with family only will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, you may make a donation to the "Christian Relief Fund" in memory of Les Downing.
Christian Relief Fund, PO Box 19670, Amarillo, Texas 79114-1670
Special thanks to "Sterling & Smith Funeral Home" for their compassion and assistance to the family.