Despite his many achievements and accolades Marlan Downey remained modest, and was ever eager to encourage, befriend and mentor young people, inspiring and teaching many in the fields of geology and management. His advice to others was to keep learning, no matter how old you might be – and he led by example.
Marlan had the ambition to outlive his grandfather who died at 102. Sadly for all, at the age of 85 and while having a business lunch with an old friend, he collapsed from a heart attack and passed away peacefully and painlessly on May 29, Memorial Day.
“I think we all knew this was the only way Dad was ever going to really retire.” Remarked Alex Downey, one of Marlan’s sons.
His family laid their beloved geologist and patriarch to rest in the earth on Thursday, June 1, 2017 in a private family service in Dallas.
His wife, Marea, and all six of his children: Donald Downey, Julie Garvin, Karen Downey, Justin Downey, Alex Downey, and Nick Downey, survive him.
A memorial fund has been setup on behalf of Marlan to be used for scholarships in the field of geology. Here’s more information if you care to make a tax deductible donation.
The announcements were made in the Sunday editions of the Dallas Morning News and the Houston Chronicle.
If you have any fond memories of Marlan Downey, we’d encourage you to post them in comments below. The family plans to compile them into a memorial book.