----Source: NEILLSVILLE PRESS (Neillsville, Clark County, Wis.) 10/21/1926

Downer, Noble (7 AUG 1852 - 13 OCT 1926)

Noble Downer, one of the oldest settlers of the vicinity of Granton, Clark County, Wis., died at his home in the town of Fremont, Wednesday, Oct. 13, aged 74 years, 2 months and 7 days. He was born in St. Lawrence Co., N.Y., Aug. 7, 1852, being the son of Joel and Eliza Downer. He came with his parents to Clark County when he was 12 years of age. The first winter spent here the father worked in camp and the family lived on Pleasant Ridge, where Noble attended school. The father secured 40 acres of land in the town of York and moved the family into the wilderness. At the age of 14, Noble went to work in a lumber camp, following this work for 30 consecutive winters, 25 of which he was a camp foreman. He bought 80 acres of land in Section 36, town of York, which he cleared, and which remained his home till six years ago when he moved to a new place in the town of Fremont.

Mr. Downer was married to Miss Melvina Johnson Sept. 20, 1871. To them were born 8 children, one of whom, Noble, died in infancy. Mr. Downer is survived by his wife and seven children: Albion, Joel, Richard, Frank, Gertrude, Mrs. James Baker, Neil, Bessie, Mrs. Roy Wright, all living in the locality, two of them, Joel and Mrs. Wright, living on what was the old home farm.

A brother, Homer Downer, died about two years ago; two sisters are living, Mrs. Carrie Holmes of Neillsville, and Mrs. Cora Converse of the town of York. Deceased leaves also 27 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Mr. Downer was a man of unusual character. He was forceful, energetic, efficient in his work, generous hearted, outspoken in his views and decided in his opinions. He took an active part in town affairs for many years and was considered a leader in local matters. The funeral was held Friday at Windfall Church, Rev. Wilson Mallory officiating. The pall bearers were the five sons and one grandson, Donald Baker. Burial took place in Windfall Cemetery.