Robin Lee Dowden

BANTAM, Conn. — Robin Lee Dowden (Downey) of Bantam, Connecticut passed away peacefully Oct. 13, 2025, at the age of 83 surrounded by family. She was born Oct. 9, 1942 in Ottumwa, Iowa.

She is survived by her 3 children; Sage Croci and her husband Dan of Litchfield, Erik Tomaino of Salisbury, and Jason Tomaino of Kauai, Hawaii. She also leaves her grandchildren; Aaron (Alina) Lee, Evan (Brittany) Lee, Ellie Barrows, Daniel, Jace and Griffin Tomaino and her 3 great grandchildren, Oakley, Theodore and Charlotte. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ed Dowden, her parents, Gordon and Aida Downey, siblings GK Downey, Tony Downey, Alex Rogers and Noel Roy.

After graduating high school in Raton, New Mexico, she attended Austin Peay State, Highlands University and Harbor College and was a flight attendant for United Airlines.

Her love of world travel, art, skiing, swimming, bowling, music and Broadway plays filled her time as well as being an active member of the garden club and multiple volunteer organizations.

Robin Lee Dowden will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

In the words of longtime dear friend of Robin’s:

“Robin was a spirited soul, a chameleon who could adapt to any circumstance, and a survivor in every sense of the word. Her life was a tapestry of stories, names, and transformations, each one a testament to her resilience and fire. She lived boldly, loved deeply, and left her mark on everyone who knew her. She was a mother to two sons and a cherished daughter, and through them, her light continues to shine. Robin’s journey was not always easy, but she met each chapter with courage and grace. Nobody cooked a butterfly-cut lamb like Robin. She brought fire and flavor to everything she touched, terrific in the kitchen, and unforgettable in life. And when she hit the slopes, she skied with the same fearless energy that defined her spirit. She could get so mad at me sometimes, but somehow, we always ended up laughing. That was Robin: fierce, funny, and full of heart. Whether she was searing lamb, carving through snow, or calling me out with that sharp wit of hers, she embraced life with passion and joy. Those of us who knew her will remember her laughter, her strength, and the way she could turn even the hardest moments into something fun or beautiful.”

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude for everyone who helped to care for her in her final months and days, especially East Mountain House in Lakeville, Connecticut and Visiting Nurse and Hospice of Litchfield County. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the above organizations in honor of Robin. A Celebration of Life is being planned for Saturday, November 1. For more information, please reach out to the family.