Obituary of Robert T. Downing

Robert “Bob” T. Downing passed away at the age of 77 on Friday, Feb. 2, 2018 on Hilton Head Island, SC where he resided. Bob was born in Cold Springs Harbor, NY to Marita and Thomas Downing on September 24, 1940. After graduating from Chaminade High School on Long Island, Bob began his future endeavors. He was a United States Marine. Bob’s passion for people resulted in a very successful entrepreneurial career. He could walk into a room of complete strangers and hours later…all were good friends. Bob had a zest for life, loved meeting new people, lived each day like it was Christmas morning, and everyone loved his sarcastic sense of humor. Bob was a reliable and well respected person that would give you the shirt off his back. Into partial retirement, Bob continued to broker in the retail packaging industry. Bob also volunteered his time driving for Meals on Wheels and with Safe Harbor, an organization that provides transportation to individuals whom are not able to drive themselves in their daily routines. Bob enjoyed his daily power walks on the beach, his coffee talk; but most of all, Bob enjoyed spending time with his family. Bob was known as the “King of Shelter Cove”. The lovely owners and bartenders of San Miguel’s knew Bob’s favorite cocktail. Bucci’s was also a favorite of Bob’s. He loved to visit the “Cristina B” and the atmosphere of this unique place. Not only was Bob a devoted husband, great father, brother, uncle, grandfather ~ he was a best friend. Bob loved his whole family and took pride in everything they did. Bob is survived by his wife, Suzanne Downing, his daughter Kristy Robison and son in law Michael Robison, his grandchildren Julia and Jack Robison. Bob is also survived by his son Ted Downing and daughter in law Tammy Downing and granddaughter Morgan Downing. He is also survived by his son Bradley Downing. Bob is also survived by his sisters, Gerry Mullins, Tricia Wessels and Kathy Barras. He is survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and great aunts. May Bob rest in peace, he will be dearly missed. A memorial service will be held at First Presbyterian Church, Hilton Head Island on Thursday, Feb. 8th at 3:00pm. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to his favorite charity on the island, Meals on Wheels, PO Box 23691, Hilton Head Island, SC, 29925. The Island Funeral Home and Crematory. Islandfuneralhome.com.