Born on August 8, 1927, to the late Dudley Sinclair Downes and Icema Eulalie Davis, Arthur was the eldest of four children and was predeceased by his three siblings.
He was educated in the Toronto school system and pursued further studies in English and Political Science through University College (UofT) and Woodsworth College programs.
Arthur dedicated his life to public service, community leadership, and faith. He was actively involved in numerous civic organizations and held distinguished positions within the Prince Hall Masonic Family, serving as a Past Grand Master for more than 60 years and as an active 33rd Degree Mason with the United Supreme Council.
A devoted member of St. Michael and All Angels Anglican Church, Arthur served in many capacities, including Past Warden, Diocese Board of Community Services member, Archbishop's appointee to Synod, Chalice Bearer, Lay Reader, and Charter Member of the St. Michael and All Angels Day Care
In healthcare leadership, Arthur joined the Doctors Hospital Board of Governors in 1968 and later served as Board Chair and Foundation President. He was also a member of the Ontario Hospital Association from 1985 to 1986. His many achievements were recognized with numerous awards, including honours from the Government of Ontario, the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal, B'nai Brith awards, and most recently, the King Charles III Coronation Medal, presented by Lieutenant Governor Edith Dumont in recognition of his outstanding community service.
Arthur also shared his knowledge as a lecturer in Social Sciences at Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson Polytechnic Institute) and in Justice and Law Studies at Humber College.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff of UHN- Hillcrest Reactivation Centre, Circle of Care, and his Home Support Worker for their exceptional care and compassion. Special thanks are also extended to Rev. Paul Feheley and Lay Pastor, Jenni King Feheley for their guidance and support.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Charles Arthur Downes would be appreciated by the family, supporting Ophthalmology at UHNfoundation. Please visit UHNfoundation.ca/tribute or call 416-603-5300. Mail cheques to UHN Foundation, R.Fraser Elliot Building, 5th Floor-5S-801,190 Elizabeth St., Toronto, ON M5G 2C4.
Arthur's life touched countless people. His generosity, friendship, leadership, and unwavering commitment to service brought people together and enriched the lives of all who knew him. His legacy will live on in the hearts of family, friends, and community members.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife and lifelong friend, Joan Irene Downes; his children, Douglas Albert Edward and Keisha Renee; goddaughter, Jill; and a large extended family of sisters-in-law, brothers-inlaws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
A precious one from us has gone, a voice we loved is still. A place is vacant in our hearts - which never can be filled. After many silent tears and heartaches, there remains a beautiful memory, of one we loved so dear.
