DOWNEY, Shirley Alice (nee Kimpel)

Passed away peacefully, with family by her side, on Monday, February 22, 2021 at Innisfree House, Kitchener, in her 92nd year. She is survived by her loving husband and soulmate of 71 years, Joseph W. Dear mother of Rev. Michael Downey, Richard (Margaret), JoAnn, Robert (June), Jeff (Anita), Joe (Jan), son-in-law Dave Shane; grandmother to Tom, Karen (Trevor), Stephen (Julie-Anne), Leanne (Chris), Jill, Mike (Heidi), Dan (Emma), Jaime, Christie, Megan, Emily; great-grandmother to Ayla, Elise, Elijah, Evelyn, Sofia, Madison and her many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents William Kimpel and Pauline (nee Kahl), her daughter Kathy (Shane), son-in-law Gary Frolander, siblings Marie (Chuck), Gord (Beatrice), Roy (Margaret), Irene (Pete), Ivadell (Steve), Wilma (Jack), Sister Mary William (Laureen), Rita (Bill), and Wilbur (Skeets). Shirley's impact was widespread across the Preston community where she led exercise classes at Fairview Mennonite Home, sang in the Resurrection Choir at St. Clement's Church and was a Bereavement support to many alongside Joe. Mom met every challenge in life with deep faith and a positive attitude, making prayer a daily priority. Her zest for life was truly infectious. Her many passions included square-dancing, tennis, gardening and baking, known for her soups and best pies in town. She worked at Savage Shoe and was a top contributor to the Savage Shoe bowling team, even bowling a perfect game. Together with her loving husband Joe, they enjoyed travelling the world with the Holy Land, Ireland, Vancouver and Hawaii as favourite destinations. Her love for bridge, euchre, and cribbage was passed down to many Downey generations, along with her infectious laugh and smile. She welcomed all who entered her home with open arms and treated everyone as family. Special thanks to the caring staff at Innisfree who lovingly cared for Mom the last two months and to Debra Thomas, Mom's PSW from Para Med, for the wonderful personal care that she provided. Cremation has taken place. A Funeral Mass and Celebration will be held at a later date. Donations can be made to Innisfree Hospice. Arrangements entrusted to Barthel Funeral Home (519) 653-3251.