Robert Downard

Robert G. Downard Jr. ("Bob"/"Bobby") relinquished his life of almost 75 years on June 4th, 2022 at St. Luke's Hospital in Milwaukee following a long battle with a lung disease. Bob was born on August 10, 1947 in Beaver Falls PA to his parents Robert (Red) and Louise Chaney Downard, who preceded him in death. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Jessi and Mike Swiderski of Greenfield; his adored grandson and namesake, Bobby James; his sister, Sherry Downard Osterhaus (RIck) of Sheboygan; and nieces and nephews. Bob is also survived by Jennifer Mealey Downard to whom he was married from 1982-2006. Bob graduated from Greendale High School in 1965 following a career as a wrestler there in the 103# weight class. He worked in sales at various establishments and was a long time employee at Grandpa Franks Flower Market in Greenfield where he made many friends by bringing them joy and comfort with their beautiful flowers. He had the pleasure of working with long time friends who were like family, including the Knackert family and many others over the years. Bob was in the US Army Reserves in Milwaukee as an SP5 with an honorable discharge in 1972. He enjoyed being with and hearing about family as they grew and thrived with their successes. His interests were reading, fishing at Legend Lake with friends, and motorcycles. What brought him the greatest pleasure in the last few years was living with his daughter and her family where he spent countless hours playing with and reading to his grandson Bobby; watching sports of golf and the Brewer games with his son-in-law Mike; and seeing his daughter, Jessi grow as a mother and wife while becoming successful in her chosen career. Bob was a selfless man, gentle in spirit and needing little to keep him happy. He maintained his love of family his entire life which brought him and others great joy. The family would like to thank the Greenfield Emergency Response Team and the staff at St. Luke's Medical Center Emergency Department for their assistance in Bob's final hour. On Thursday, June 16th, 2022, a visitation with the family from 3:00 - 5:00 PM and listening of memories of Bob at 5:00 PM will occur at Schramka Funeral Home at 11030 West Forest Home Avenue Hales Corners, WI 53130. If you desire to make a donation in Bob's name, the Wisconsin Humane Society 4500 West Wisconsin Avenue Milwaukee WI 53208 was important to him. Bob had a fierce love for animals and rescued many himself during his life.