Donald R. “Don” Downer, 81, of Auburn died Saturday, April 25, 2015 in Saint Francis Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Worcester surrounded by his loving family.

He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Joan (LaBombard) Downer; his sons, Robert, Stephen and Thomas Downer all of Auburn; a daughter, Catherine Vandall of Framingham; three grandchildren, Allison and Ashley Downer and Shawn Vandall; an aunt and several cousins.

Don served 28 years in the Unites States Navy. After retiring from the Navy he worked as a fire dispatcher for the City of Worcester for 17 years.

Don was most passionate about volunteer firefighting, he served in various departments where he was stationed and finished his fire career with the Auburn Fire Department. He also enjoyed collecting die cast firetrucks and camping with his family.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Donald’s funeral Mass on Wednesday, May 6, 2015 at 10 AM in Saint Joseph’s Church, 189 Oxford St. North. Burial with military honors will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital , 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105, /www.stjude.org. Britton-Wallace Funeral Home, 91 Central St, Auburn is assisting the Downer family with arrangements.