Bernice M. Downs

Bernice Margaret Downs was born on January 29, 1912 in Hawkeye, Iowa to Leonard and Marie Dietel. She passed away September 18 at her son’s home.

She was the youngest of five girls. Three sisters were grown by the time the two youngest, born 16 months apart, arrived. She lived on the family farm until five years old. The family moved to Mountain View, Calif. where she and her sister Evelyn grew up. She attended Mt. View Academy and Pacific Union College. While at college she met Malcolm Downs; they were married for 52 years. In 1942 they adopted Edward and his sister Peggy. She spent her life as a wonderful mother and wife. In 1981 they lost their daughter Peggy to cancer. Dr. Downs died in January of 1985. He was 77 years old. She continued to live in Sonora, Calif. until 2001 when she moved to Grays River, to be near her son Edward and his family.

She grew up a Seventh Day Adventist and was a faithful member supporting many church outreaches. She enjoyed playing the piano at church.

She lived a rich and wonderful life. She was a blessing to all who knew her. She leaves her son Edward and his wife Claudia, six grandchildren and 15 great grand-children. She was affectionately known as Bunny.

She will be greatly missed.

Private memorials are planned. Donations in her memory can be sent to CARES Northwest in Portland, Oregon.