Michael W. Down

Michael W. Down, 68, of Freeville/Groton passed away on May 8, 2025 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Syracuse.

He was born August 30, 1956, in Lawton, OK, a son of the late William and Dorothy “Dot” (Schall) Down. An area resident for most of his life, he graduated from Dryden Central School, Class of 1974.

Mike worked his entire career at the Suburban Shopper in Freeville, starting at age 14 when he first mowed lawns for his lifelong mentor, Sid Jones. Over the years, he assumed all the additional roles and responsibilities required in a weekly publication and print shop. He became the owner of Freeville Publishing Company, Inc., and actively remained at the helm until his recent illness.

Many people will remember the assortment of classic limousines that Mike had collected and piloted since the 1970s. He enjoyed his family, The Shopper family and his customers, whom he considered friends.

He is survived by his children Andy Down (Carrie), of Traverse City, MI and Stephanie Reniff (Michael), of Freeville; his granddaughter and “bright spot,” Harper Reniff; his life companion, Debbie Finton, of Groton; brothers, Richard Down, of Atlanta, GA and Kevin Down (Denise), of W. Milford, NJ; sisters, Elizabeth Epstein (Andrew), of Beaufort, SC and Maureen Cochran (Steve), of Naperville, IL; and many nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held at the Shurtleff Funeral Home on Friday, May 16 from 5:30-7:30 PM. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, May 17 at the Shurtleff Funeral Home, 103 Lincoln Ave., Groton, with interment in Willow Glen Cemetery, Dryden.  A gathering will follow afterwards at 3:00 PM at the Freeville Fire Department.

Memorial donations, in lieu of flowers, are graciously recommended to your local SPCA. Online condolences may be shared at www.shurtleffservices.com.