HAINES CITY - Dr. J. Robert "Bob" Downing, D.V.M., age 62, of Haines City passed away Sat. (4/14/07) of complications from diabetes.

Dr. Downing was born in Baltimore, Md. on Jan. 25, 1945. He graduated from Westminster High School in 1963, University of Maryland in 1967 and the University of Georgia School of Veterinary Medicine in 1970. Following graduation he moved to Haines City in June of 1970 to work with Dr. Robert Caldwell and then open the Haines City Veterinary Hospital in 1973.

Dr. Downing was an avid golfer and is survived by two children: daughter, Kelly and her husband, Ed Haywood of Valrico, Florida, son, Rob and his wife, Kelly Downing of Hillsborough, North Carolina, 5 grandchildren; and companion, Janice Aria of Davenport.

Friends will gather from 6 to 8 PM. Tuesday evening at Oak Ridge Funeral Care. Memorial Services 3:00 PM. Wed. at Oak Ridge Funeral Care, Haines City, Fl.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Red Cross, 147 Ave. A, NW, Winter Haven, Fl. 33881 or the Citrus Center Boy and Girls Club Inc., 2400 Havendale Blvd. Winter Haven, Fl. 33881 Condolances via: - oakridgefuneralcare.com