Chicago has lost a profound advocate for Native American history with the passing of Dennis Downes at age 72. Downes, renowned for his study and preservation of trail marker trees left by Native Americans, succumbed to colon cancer after an eight-year battle and complications from a recent stroke. The Chicago Sun-Times reported that Liz Fox, a longtime associate of Downes, said, "He dedicated his life to researching Native American history and Native American trail marker trees." His intricate work, such as the George Wellington "Cap'n" Streeter sculpture in Streeterville, reflects an intertwined relationship between his artistic expression and historical research.
Beyond the art, Mr. Downes was a pivotal figure in local preservation efforts, his studies contributing to the designation of The Grove in Glenview as a National Historic Landmark. Fox also stated that proceeds from his 20-year solo art show at The Grove were donated to assist in its continued preservation. Celebrated for his book, "Native American Trail Marker Trees: Marking Paths Through the Wilderness," and for his leadership of the Great Lakes Trail Marker Tree Society, Downes leaves behind a legacy distinguished by a profound respect for the past and commitment to educating future generations.
Embracing the heritage of the Native Americans, Downes received the name Mayaagaabaw from Minnesota's Ojibwe tribe, meaning "he stands foremost among others." As BNNBreaking.com highlighted, this honor acknowledged his expansive work and the influence he held in shedding light on this aspect of Native American culture.
Downes' artistic legacy is also etched in the landscape with public sculptures, including a 6-foot-tall bronze in Antioch and a 16-foot steel-and-resin piece at The Grove. These creations not only serve as monuments to his passion but stand as enduring educational tools for the community. His sister, Maryann Downes-Coste, quoted by the Sun-Times, encapsulated his ethos: "He always did everything with dignity and purpose." Though Downes is gone, the mark he made on both the land and in the hearts of those who shared his vision will not be soon forgotten.
Funeral services for Mr. Downes will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. this Saturday at Kelley & Spalding Funeral Home, 1787 Deerfield Road, Highland Park. He is survived by his wife, Gail Spreen, three brothers, nine nephews and nieces, and fourteen great-nieces and nephews. Those who knew him and the many who will continue to encounter his work are left to honor a man whose life was a testament to the adage he held dear: "Don't be afraid of doing something, be afraid of never doing anything."
