John Downing, the former longtime editor of the Toronto Sun, recently celebrated his 90th birthday at a memorable event attended by legendary cartoonist and fellow Day Oner Andy Donato. Downing was a foundational figure at the newspaper, joining as a city hall columnist when it launched on November 1, 1971.
Career Highlights
Downing began his journalism career as editor of the Whitehorse Star in 1957. He then worked as a reporter and editor at the Toronto Telegram from 1958 to 1971. At the Toronto Sun, he served as city hall columnist from its inception and later became editor from 1985 to 1997. Over his long career, Downing penned 5,400 columns and 4,000 editorials.
The birthday celebration honored his contributions to Canadian journalism and his status as a Day Oner—one of the original staff members who launched the Toronto Sun.
