Daniel E. Downey Sr., 78, of Springfield, passed away on December 21, 2019 at Ocean Springs Hospital in Ocean Springs, Mississippi.

Daniel was born on December 11, 1941 in St. Louis, MO, the son of Edward J. and Emilia (Drewitch) Downey.

Daniel was an avid Sprint Car Racing fan. He also enjoyed fishing and camping. Daniel was a proud lifelong union plumber and was a member of the Local 137.

He was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents; and his step daughter, Christine Lane.

Daniel is survived by his wife, Fran (Chegin) Downey; children, Dan (Linn) Downey Jr., Darren Downey, Darrell Downey and Nicole (Wayne) Downey-Padget; sister, Maureen (John) O'Hara; and several grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and beloved friends.

Visitation will be from 5-7:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 29, 2019 at Ellinger-Kunz & Park Funeral Home.  The family requests that any racing fans in attendance wear their favorite racing shirt.  Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 30, 2019 at the funeral home with Reverend Larry Hanson officiating.  Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery.