Indiana School for the Deaf Alumni Association
Class of 1968
Robert L. "Bob" Downing, Jr.
October 14, 1938 - October 30, 2019
aboutBob
A huge Deaf advocate in our Deaf community.
Robert L. “Bob” Downing, Jr., 81, loving husband and father of 3, passed away on October 30, 2019 at his home in McCordsville surrounded by his family. He was born October 14, 1938 in Vincennes, IN to Robert and Adeline (Ell) Downing. Bob retired from the Indianapolis Star & News after 25 years as a linotype operator. While working at the Indy Star he also ran his own business, Indiana Telecom Services, which sold accessibility equipment to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community.
Bob was very active in the Deaf community. He served as President and a founding member of the Madison County Deaf Club, was inducted into the Indiana School for the Deaf Hall of Fame for Sports Excellence, named as Indiana School for the Deaf Alumnus of the Year for his community leadership, and served on the Board of Directors for Archibald Memorial Home, a senior living community for the Deaf. He also served on board of Indiana Association of the Deaf. In June of 2019, Bob was awarded the Distinguished Hoosier Award by Governor Eric Holcomb.
Bob loved traveling, camping and spending time with his family.
ISDAA BOARD MEMBERS
PRESIDENT: Jeff Choate
VICE PRESIDENT: Jennifer Kutcka
SECRETARY: John Hess
TREASURER: Kenneth Kramer
Board Members:
Asmani Aluta
Marissa Babineaux
Patti Dillingham
Kimberly Galagan
Ann Reifel
