L. Rolan Downs

L. Rolan Downs, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, died January 7, 2007. Rolan, born February 13, 1924, was the fifth son and seventh child of twelve children born to Arthur Edward Downs and Birdie Cornelia Hunt. He was drafted in February 1944, at the age of 20, and volunteered for the United States Navy, where he served honorably for more than two years in the Pacific Theatre. On April 4, 1950, Rolan married Georgia Hansen, our mother, in the Logan Temple. He always felt that his most important calling was that of a husband, a father, a grandfather, and a great-grandfather. As his family, we would often gather to bask in the warmth of his love. Rolan is survived by his wife and 6 children: Julie Michael Willardson, Birdie Lou Alan Weaver, Marianne John Pratt, George Downs, Ruth Dennis Green, and Daryl Allison Downs; 26 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 12:00 noon on Wednesday, January 10th at the Smithfield 2nd Ward Chapel, 175 South 100 West. A viewing will be held from 6-8 pm on Tuesday, January 9th, at the Nelson Funeral Home, 85 South Main, Smithfield, with a short viewing prior to the services at the church on Wednesday from 10-11 am. In lieu of flowers, please consider a generous contribution to: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Missionary Fund.