John Carlyle Downey, 90, died peacefully Aug. 19, 2022, at his home. He was born April 3, 1932, in Clayton, N.Y., the son of Carlyle and Mary (Bell) Downey.

John and his family moved to Clayburg, N.Y., and he graduated from Plattsburgh High School. Following graduation, he served with the Air Force in Korea. In 1955, John left the Air Force and returned home to attend college at SUNY Plattsburgh, where he graduated with a teaching degree. He taught school for 28 years.

John married Dorothy (Chini) and they settled in Saranac, where they both were teachers. They were married for 60 years. John was an avid outdoorsman. It wasn't uncommon to find him out in the woods, hunting, or fishing. He most certainly passed that love down to his children and grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife, Dorothy, his children Loren and Tom, and his daughter-in-law Susan. Surviving are his son John and wife Robin of Cadyville, his son Patrick of Cadyville, his daughter Julie and husband Mike Lawrence of Vermontville. Six grandchildren: Johnny, Joel, Laura, Katie, Sarah, and Erin; and three great-grandchildren, Lilly, Claire, and Madeline.

As per John's wishes, there will be no public calling hours or services.