Obituaries
PEORIA – William Hal Downs, Jr., 84, of Peoria, passed away on June 30, 2013. Bill was born on October 7, 1928, to Hal and Alfhild Downs. He married Katherine “Kathie” Snider in 1979. She survives. He is also survived by his daughter, Monica (Jon) Jertberg of Royal Oaks, CA; five grandsons; ten great-grandchildren; his brother, David of Meridian, ID; and sisiter, Kathleen (John) Duke of Peoria. He was preceded in death by his son, William Hal Downs III, and his parents. Following high school, he served in the Army, in Korea, from 1951- 1953. Bill owned and operated The Original Murphy’s Restaurant, in Peoria, until retiring in 1971. He and Kathie raised and showed American Saddlebred horses for many years. He was a member of the Brage Svithiod Lodge and Salem Lutheran Church. Through the years, Bill was known for his love of family and friends. He enjoyed entertaining, and made the best margaritas in Peoria. Cremation rites have been accorded. Visitation will be from 11 – Noon, Monday, July 8, 2013, at Salem Lutheran Church. A luncheon at the Lariat Steak House will immediately follow. Wright & Salmon Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Central IL Chapter. Tributes and condolences may be submitted to www.wrightandsalmon.com.