Benjamin H. Downs Sr., age 72, of Ripon, passed away on Friday, August 30, 2024 at Aurora Medical Center in Oshkosh, WI with his family by his side. Ben was born on December 29, 1951 in Oshkosh, WI; the son of Wesley Sr. and Viola (Cundy) Downs. He graduated from Ripon High School, Class of 1971. He then enlisted in the U.S. Airforce and served his country from October 25, 1971 to October 25, 1975. He was stationed at Blytheville, AFB-ARK and in Guam for 6 months. He was united in marriage to April Hodge on April 29, 1972 at Immanual Lutheran Church in Oshkosh, WI.

Ben was an avid Toy collector.  He was the co-founder and member of the Pickett Steam and Gas Engine Club. He enjoyed taking trips to the National Farm Toy Show in Dyersville, Iowa. He loved driving his tractors in many local parades and has a huge collection of both tractors and toy tractors.   

Ben is survived by his wife, April; 2 sons: Benjamin Downs Jr of Ripon, and Peter Downs of Neenah; 4 grandchildren: Summer, Parker, Finch, and Evan Downs; brother, Wes (Pam) Downs of Ripon; sister-in-law, Karen Downs of Ripon; nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends. He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Gene Downs; sister, Barbara (Carl) Packer; and nephew, Josh Downs.

A Visitation for Ben will be held from 10am to 12pm on Thursday, September 5, 2024 at Divine Passage Funeral Home in Ripon.

A Funeral service will be held at 12:00pm on Thursday, September 5, 2024 at Divine Passage Funeral Home in Ripon, WI. Burial and Full Military Honors will take place in Liberty Prairie Cemetery in Pickett, WI. Divine Passage Funeral Home in Ripon is proudly serving the Downs family. Divinepassagefunerals.com