Robert C. Downie, 87, of Centre Hall, died Thursday, March 30, 2006, at Mt. Nittany Medical Center in State College.
He was born March 29, 1919 in Meyersdale, Pennsylvania, a son of the late Robert C. and Pearl Shultz Downie.
On March 21, 1946, he married the former Elizabeth Snyder who survives at home. He is also survived by two sons, Robert C. Downie Jr. and his wife Barbara of Mars, PA, and Frank C. Downie and his wife Kathianne of Centre Hall, and two grandchildren, Michael and John Downie. He was preceded in death by a sister Margaret Black.
Mr. Downie graduated from Meyersdale High School in 1936. He attended Arizona University, and earned Bachelor of Science degrees in agriculture and science from Penn State University in 1949. In 1955 he earned a Master of Education degree from the University of Pittsburgh He also attended Command and Staff School at the Air University.
During World War II, Mr. Downie served from 1941 - 1945, serving overseas in the South west Pacific. As a Pacific Pilot he was awarded three Distinguished Flying Crosses, and five Air Medals. Following his active duty, he enlisted in the U. S. Air Force Reserves, and retired in 1979 as a Lt. Col.
Mr. Downie began teaching Agriculture at Mars High School in 1949, where he became acting Principal in 1955, later advancing to Principal. In 1966 he went to work for the Penns Valley School District, retiring as Superintendent of Schools in 1980.
Robert was a member of the Benevolent and Protective order of the Elks Lodge 1600, State College and the American Legion of which he was a past commander. He served on the Board of Directors of Capital Blue Cross and Blue Shield.
He especially enjoyed gardening and golfing.
Friends will be received from 2 - 4 p. m. Sunday, April 2, 2006 at Mark D. Heintzelman Funeral and Cremation Service, 226 S. Pennsylvania Ave. Centre Hall, PA. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a. m. Monday, April 3, 2006 at the funeral home. A private burial service will follow at the Reformed and Lutheran Cemetery in Tusseyville.
In lieu of flowers, contribution in his memory may be made to PAWS, 1042 Benner Pike, State College, PA 16801 or The Centre Hall Area Branch Library, 109 W. Beryl St. Centre Hall, PA 16828.
A guest book can be signed or condolences sent to the family at www.heintzelmanfuneralhome.com