Delbert Larry Downs

OBITUARY: Delbert Larry Downs
Delbert L. Downs, 78, Topeka, passed away Fri. morning, Feb. 11, 2011, at Rolling Hills Health Center. He was born Sept. 25, 1932, in Topeka, the son of Leroy "Red" and Edna R. (Moody) Downs. He married Virginia (Waetzig) Downs on June 8, 1952, she survives. Delbert retired from Santa Fe Railway after over 39 years. His life was devoted to "making music" to entertain everyone. He played trumpet, banjo, drums and the omnichord. He started playing trumpet at the age of 10 and at the age of 16, he began playing at Vinewood Dance Hall in his father's dance band, the "Red Downs Orchestra." He later played with "The Get-Togethers" and then played at Shakey's Pizza Parlor for 9 years. In the mid-70's, he began his own dance band with his sons and daughter, "Del and the Downbeats," playing various venues including many Senior Citizens' dances. He later began playing the "omnichord" and visited various senior centers and nursing homes bringing "musical sunshine" to everyone. Surviving in addition to his wife are a daughter: Debbie (Dennis) Uhl, Topeka, and two sons: Del (Sally) Downs, Topeka, and Darren (Jonna) Downs, Topeka; 5 grandchildren; and 6 great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a brother, Kenneth Downs. Services will be at 10:00 AM, Wed., Feb. 16, 2011, at Penwell-Gabel Parker-Price Chapel, 245 NW Independence Ave. Interment will be in Carbondale Cemetery. Delbert will lie in state after 1:00 PM, Tues., at the funeral chapel where the family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. Memorial contributions may be sent to Grace Hospice, 3715 SW 29th Street, Suite 100, Topeka, KS 66614.