Shirley Frances (Daniel) Downer

DOWNER, Shirley Frances (nee Daniel)                                                                 

January 21, 1935 to December 15, 2021

It is with profound love and sadness that the family of Shirley Frances Downer announce her peaceful passing on Wednesday, December 15, 2021, at the age of 86.

In death there is often great celebration and for Shirley it will be reuniting with her soulmate, love of her life and husband the late Eldon Clark Downer.      

Our parents had a great love and storybook romance, instilling in all of us the importance of family first.

Shirley will always be lovingly remembered by her 2 daughters Anne (Brian) O’Brien and Christina (Doug) Ogilvie.  Treasured Nana to her 4 grandchildren Chelsea O’Brien (Gonzalo), Jacqueline O’Brien, Mackenzie (Sarah) O’Brien and Mitchell Ogilvie, as well as 2 great grandchildren precious muffins Eldon and Owen O’Brien. 

She was predeceased by her parents Alfred and Dorothy (Nee Mason) Daniel.  Dear sister to 7 siblings Genevieve Reynolds predeceased, Connie Killian (Del predeceased), June (Romeo) Sullivan both predeceased, Paul (Debbie) Daniel, Justine Spencer predeceased, Sandra Lang and David Daniel.

Shirley was a strong, independent, and confident woman, characteristic’s she inspired in her family.  She was a patient listener, a mentor and our modern day life coach always giving the best advice, she was our rock.

She had a passion for golf and along with Eldon they were members at Pine Crest for many fun filled years playing in tournaments and making lifelong friends.

Shirley was an extremely talented painter, who loved spending many hours with her grandchildren drawing and sharing her artistic abilities. She was the happiest when spending time with her family.

We will miss her dearly, especially her wild sense of humor, infectious laugh, legendary sarcasm, and a smile that would light up any room.   You have forever filled our hearts with love, and we will cherish and love you always.  

A huge Thank you to the ENTIRE STAFF (& best friend Donna Bjorndahl) of Riverview Manor for your dedication, and compassion.  You managed through COVID and all its complications to make Shirley feel safe and cared for, you didn’t just give Mom a place to live but gave her a home filled with love.  We cannot thank you enough for your kindness and exemplary care that you so selflessly gave to our Mother. You will forever have a special place in our hearts.

A Celebration of Life for Shirley will be held sometime in the Spring/Summer of 2022.

Memorial Donations may be made in Shirley Downer’s name to The Alzheimer Society of Peterborough or The Hospital for Sick Children.