HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 2025-4603
HR 4603
By Representative Steele
WHEREAS, Viki Downey's career in aquatic safety and instruction spanned from 1965 through 2024; and
WHEREAS, Viki began lifeguarding at the remarkable young age of 11; and
WHEREAS, At age 30, Viki was hired at a pool where she continued lifeguarding and assisted with therapy swim sessions; and
WHEREAS, At age 34, Viki was selected to lead the therapy swim program, while also instructing water aerobics, teaching swim lessons, and serving as a lifeguard; and
WHEREAS, Viki became the pool's Aquatic Supervisor at age 38, further demonstrating her leadership and devotion to community health and safety; and
WHEREAS, Viki was hired by the Manson Park and Recreation District in 1998, where she established and developed the lifeguarding program and served as Aquatic Supervisor until her retirement in 2024; and
WHEREAS, During her first year in 1998 at Manson Bay Park, Viki performed 14 rescues, a testament to her vigilance and commitment to public safety; and
WHEREAS, In 2011, Viki started a free swim lesson program for individuals ages four to 100, teaching 398 lessons the first year, 483 the second year, and over 500 lessons each consecutive year until 2020, when COVID-19 restrictions were in place; and
WHEREAS, Viki Downey and Judy Phelps formed the Lake Chelan Swim Foundation, continuously fundraising to ensure the ongoing success of the free swim lesson program; and