Downer, Joel Age 70, of Bradenton, FL passed away peacefully on October 30, 2019 after a courageous battle with Multiple Myeloma. Joel was born in Glencoe, Minnesota on May 8, 1949. Joel served his community throughout his life beginning his career in law enforcement as a patrol officer with the Brooklyn Center Police Department in 1973 rising to the rank of Chief. After 29 years, he retired to Florida with his wife where he was a teacher. Joel was a two-time recipient of the Melvin Jones Award for Lionism and an active member of Woodland Community Church. Joel was preceded in death by his father, George Downer. Joel is survived by his wife, Marilyn; mother, Frances Downer; son, Matthew Downer; daughter, Elizabeth Eernisse (Jason); grandchildren, Jack and Gracie; siblings, Roderick Downer (Charlette), Diane Hatlestad (Tom), Martha Hartmann; extended family, Doug Worman (Sharon), and Pam Mechtel; and his canine companion, Krissy. A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, November 14, 2019 at 1:00 PM at Woodland Community Church, 9607 East State Road 70, Bradenton, Florida 34202. Memorials may be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society at lls.org