Kevin Downs, 62

August 29, 1962 - May 21, 2025

Beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, Visionary Entrepreneur

Kevin Downs, 62, of Lancaster, PA, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, and raised in South Shields and Norwich in the United Kingdom, Kevin brought with him a quiet determination and brilliant mind that left a lasting mark on everything he touched.

In 2002, he founded HDI Railings with just six employees, an ambitious venture that, through his leadership, grew into a successful company supported by a dedicated team of 60, who remain committed to carrying on his legacy. His work can be seen in iconic places such as SpaceX headquarters, the new World Trade Center in New York City, and on the campus of Princeton University. Kevin was instrumental in designing many of the innovative railing systems now offered by HDI, applying his sharp eye and engineering skill to create solutions that were both functional and beautiful.

He enjoyed reading—particularly science fiction novels, was a passionate Formula 1 fan and had a lifelong love for sports cars. Over the years he took great pride in the ones he owned, each representing a chapter of his journey and love for driving.
Kevin is survived by his devoted wife, Tracy Downs; his sons, Samuel and William Downs; his cherished granddaughters, Isabella and Emma Downs; and his beloved sister, Shelagh Downs.

He was deeply loved and will be remembered always for his warmth, wit, and visionary mind.

Kevin’s family warmly invites everyone who knew him and whose lives he touched to join them for a memorial service on Friday, June 6th at 3:00pm at Charles F. Snyder III Funeral Home and Crematory, 2421 Willow Street Pike, Willow Street, PA 17584.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude’s Cancer Research Hospital.