Hyrum, Utah – Les Downs, 85, passed away peacefully at Logan Regional Hospital, Monday, September 15, 2003. He was born November 9, 1917, in Smithfield, Utah, just minutes before his identical twin, Weslie J. Downs, the third of 12 children born to Arthur Edward and Birdie Cornelia Hunt Downs.

Les grew up in Smithfield, graduating from North Cache High School. A veteran of World War II, he served in the United States in England, Italy and France. Upon returning home he met and married his eternal companion, Marian Ione Burrell, on September 12, 1946, in the Salt Lake LDS Temple, and settled in Hyrum. A farmer by heart, Les trained and raised quarter horses. He and his twin brother were well-known for their perfectly matched and groomed draft horses. He worked at Thiokol, LDS Distribution Center, and retired from Utah State University in 1982. A member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he served faithfully in many callings. His family and church was undoubtedly the most important thing in his life.

Les is survived by his devoted wife, and children: J. Douglas Downs (Cindy), Bountiful; Shauna Jensen (Steven), Logan; Joel L. Downs (Tana), Smithfield; and Josie Shepherd (Dave), North Ogden, as well as siblings, Glen E. (Loree) Downs, Smithfield, Weslie J. (Marzell) Downs, Hyrum, Venna D. (Keith) McBride, Plain City, L. Rolan (Georgia) Downs, Smithfield, Robert K. (Reta) Downs, Hyde Park, J. Lee (Mary) Downs, Quincy, Washington, Seth L. (Sharon) Downs, Smithfield, Jerry Downs (Renee), North Logan, sister-ini-laws, Laura Downs (Logan), and Clarice Downs (Smithfield). He delighted in 17 grandchildren, 7 plus great-grandchildren, and many nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Parley and Lewis, sisters, Nona and Lois, and one grandson, Dana.

Funeral services will be held at noon on Thursday, September 18, 2003, at the Hyrum 10th Ward Chapel, 111 North 400 West, Hyrum, with Bishop Mike Richardson conducting. Friends and family may call from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday evening, Allen Hall Mortuary, 34 East Center, Logan, and from 10:30 - 11:45 a.m. on Thursday, at the church prior to services. Burial will be in the Hyrum City Cemetery. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.allenhallmortuary.com