Marilyn Downer

MARILYN K. DOWNER, 77 'NANNY' ROCKFORD - Marilyn K. Downer, 77, of Rockford died suddenly, Thursday, Sept. 27, 2012, in OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, while surrounded by her loving family. Born June 28, 1935, in Kansas City, Mo., daughter of John and Helen Sullivan Quinn. Graduated from Lillis High School in Kansas City and married Robert E. Downer on Oct. 9, 1954. She was employed for 30 years by Holy Family Catholic Church, retiring as business manager in June 2010. She was also a member of Holy Family Church, their Women's Guild and Catholic Women's League. She loved to garden and was a member of the Council of Rockford Gardeners. She had also been a Girl Scout leader during the time her children were involved in scouting. Marilyn was involved in several other more informal groups that she enjoyed; Munching Moms, The Dirty Dozen, Holy Rollers (painting to help others) and the Stamping Group. Following her retirement, she became an active volunteer for Carpenter's Place. Marilyn had the ability to always put a smile on your face and always left you with an "I love you". She lived with, and shared with others that, "No problem is ever to big". Her family was the most important part of her world and she loved her big family gatherings with her children. She lived to spend time with her grandchildren and loved to share stories about them. Additionally, she cherished so many dear friends and loved to spend time with them as well. Survivors include children, Timothy Downer of Frankfurt, Ky., Debbie Downer of Ypsilanti, Mich., Dawn Callahan of Cape Coral, Fla., Kevin Downer of Ottawa, Mary (Bill) Marcille and Erin (Greg) Barker, both of Rockford and Bridget (Rob) Buysse of Washington, Ill.; she was Nanny to Leslie Simonovich, Greg Callahan, Ben Simonovich, Robby Buysse, Alex Buysse and Sam Buysse; and her dear friend, Barb Finnegan of Denver. Predeceased by her husband on Aug. 3, 1996, and her parents. Marilyn wanted to thank everyone at Holy Family Church who helped her over the years, including those who helped her count, the statement stuffers and all of the fantastic co-workers. Her family would also like to thank the nurses and staff at OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center that provided loving care for her, especially Noel and Tera who gave so much comfort to her and the family during her final hours. Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 1, in Holy Family Catholic Church, with Msgr. Thomas E. Bales and the Rev. David E. Beauvais con-celebrating. Private family burial in Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Visitation from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 30, in Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Road, with a prayer service at 4:30 p.m. Visitation also from 10 too 10:45 a.m. Monday at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Caprenter's Place, 1149 Railroad Ave., Rockford, IL 61104. Express condolences and share memories at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.