Downey passed away at the age of 58 and is survived by his wife, Carolyn, as well as four children and five grandchildren "This year's tournament is expanding to 200 golfers, that is up from 150 golfers last year," said Chris Downey, Stevan's son and co-director of the tournament. "My father died from Mesothelioma cancer and this year we are hoping to raise over $30,000 for The International Mesothelioma Program at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston."

The Downey Family anticipates that they will have over 300 total participants including golfers, volunteers, family and friends. If the Downey Family reaches their aspiration of $30,000 then they will have raised over $100,000 for the hospital's program in the last four years.

"We are thankful for our sponsors," Chris said. "This year we are lucky to have a few larger sponsors such as the Law Firm of Thornton & Naumes LLP of Boston as well as the return sponsorship of Eastern Bank."

When asked if he ever envisioned that this tournament would be a perennial success, Chris said that he has been surprised that the demand for the tournament has increased ever year.

"My father devoted most of his life serving Lynn and its residents, therefore I knew that the initial turnout in 2005 would be great, but I never envisioned that the demand would be increasing every year."

Following the first annual tournament, Chris said that people often told him that support for fundraising events like the Downey Memorial Golf Tournament often dropped off following the first year. To Chris and the rest of the Downey family, the exponential growth of the tournament is a testament to the heart and dedication of Lynn residents.

"Our demand has been increasing every year and we are thankful to this great city of Lynn for their continual support," Chris said. "I certainly never anticipated this much attention. It's kind-of like one of those 'I could not stop now if I wanted to' type of things."

Chris would like to reiterate that there are still a few spots open for people interested in participating in the tournament and that personal donations are always being accepted. The tournament will start at 8 a.m. at the Far Corner Golf Course in West Boxford. Following the 27 holes, there will be a barbecue-style dinner, silent auction and an awards presentation. Red Sox tickets, North Shore Music Theatre tickets, weekend skiing trips and various other tickets and items will be up for auction at the event.

A team of four players can enter the tournament at a cost of $600. To register, visit Stevedowneygolf.com.