Kenneth Donald Downs, 79, passed away April 25, 2010 at home in Camarillo, in the presence of his loving family.

Ken was born in Council Bluffs, Iowa on June 6, 1930. He was the youngest of eight children and enjoyed life on the farm. The family moved to Los Angeles in 1940 when Ken was 10. He loved playing football at George Washington High School and at El Camino College, and had the stories and injuries to prove it.

He started his career as a firefighter with the South Gate Fire Dept. ending after 30 yrs as a firefighter with L.A .Co. Fire Dept, retiring in 1990.

Ken served many years as a Scout leader, coach of softball and AYSO soccer, and as a mentor for many generations of young men in Norwalk and Camrillo, both in the community and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Ken is survived by his beloved wife of 26 years, Jann Downs, children Susan Long (Jim), David Downs, Ron Downs (Kelli), Kirk Downs (Kelly), Kevin Downs (Jenny), Kristina Wirthlin (Bryan) and Wayne Miller. In addition, Ken is survived by 20 grandchildren, whom he dearly loved, many nephews, nieces and his sister-in-law, Ella Downs.

Ken loved his family and loved being with them, planning many reunions and fun activities to bring together the generations.

A funeral service to honor Ken is scheduled for 11 a.m., with a viewing from 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. Friday, April 30, 2010, at the Church of Jesus Christ Latter-day Saints on 1201 Paseo Camarillo, Camarillo, Ca.

We want to express our gratitude to Assisted Home Hospice for their care during these past few weeks. Interment will be at Conejo Mountain Memorial Park immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society. Arrangements under the direction on Griffin Family Funeral Chapels, 1075 E. Daily Dr. Camarillo;482-1166.