Jerome F Downs

Jerome F. Downs passed away on October 23, 2016 at his home in San Francisco after a brief illness, five days before his 95th Birthday. He was born in St. Joseph, Missouri in 1921, third son of William E. and Marguerite C. Downs. Following service in North Africa with the United States Army Air Corps during World War II, he moved to the Bay Area where he received both his Bachelor's Degree and a law degree from Stanford University in 1949. After a brief period practicing law in Missouri, he returned to San Francisco and from 1953 until his retirement in 1986 he practiced law with the firm of Thornton & Taylor, later Thornton, Taylor & Downs, where he was one of California's most highly regarded property insurance attorneys. He handled a number of noteworthy cases before the California Supreme Court including the seminal case on concurrent causation, Sabella v. Wisler in 1963.

Outside of the law, Jerome was a licensed private pilot and a champion pistol marksman, who participated in the National Championship Matches. After retirement, he traveled, was a prolific writer, and always enjoyed a good debate.

Jerome is survived by his son Andrew (Christine) of San Rafael, and daughter Joan (Brian Krostenko) of South Bend, Indiana, four grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. His wife of 51 years, Jean Downs, preceded him in death.

A funeral mass will be on Thursday, November 3 at 10:00 a.m. at the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption, 1111 Gough Street, San Francisco. Interment at Mount Olivet Cemetery, St. Joseph, Missouri.

Memorial contributions to the American Civil Liberties Union, or a charity of your choice.