Charles F. Downs

YORK- Charles Fuller “Chet” Downs, 94, passed away on Sunday, July 6, 2025. He was a resident of Country Meadows Leader Heights, in York. He was married to Mary Jane (Allen) Downs Hazleton on October 4, 1952 and had been married to her for 70 years, until her passing in 2023.

Born in Altoona, PA January 27, 1931; he was the son of the late George and Rachael E. (Fuller) Downs. Chet was a 1948 graduate of Altoona High School and spent four years in the US Naval Reserves. He worked for Caterpillar Tractor and also York Machinery and Supply. He later started his own construction company building houses, fast food restaurants, and a housing development in Dover, PA. He was a past president of the York County Builder’s Association.

He was a licensed private pilot, certified financial planner, and residential and commercial realtor. His hobbies were flying his Piper Arrow airplane, where he donated many hours flying patients on AirLifeLine to various hospitals. He also enjoyed photography and along with his wife visited over 126 countries.

Chet and his wife were members of First Presbyterian Church in York since 1957. They also supported the York Symphony and the York Habitat for Humanity.

Chet is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Spahr and her husband David of York; two grandchildren, Ryan Spahr and his wife Rhianna and Erin Snyder and her husband Ken; four great grandchildren; Kendall, Brady. Lillian, and Leah. Along with his wife, Chet was preceded in death by his son, Charles F. Downs, Jr.

Following cremation, interment will be at First Presbyterian Church with a private graveside service in the memorial garden. Heffner Funeral Chapel & Crematory, Inc, 1551 Kenneth Rd in York is in charge of the arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 222 East Market Street, York, PA 17402 or York Habitat for Humanity, 1175 Carlisle Rd. York, PA 17404.

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