Jean (Wilkinson) Downs – October 5, 2020

On Monday October 5, 2020 Jean (Wilkinson) passed away peacefully surrounded by her family. She is survived by her beloved husband of 50 years Mike, sister Ruth, brother Dave (Donna), and sister-in-law Cheryl, brother-in-law Bill (Dee) Predeceased by her sister Joan and her husband Stan, and brother-in-law Joe and his life partner Maddy.

Jean was loved by her many nieces, nephews and rewarded with 27 great nieces and nephews.

Jean and Mike spent 40 years as partners in business with short stints in Radio Shack  and Colour Your World before falling in love with Southampton, its people and the opportunity to serve the town as Downs Pro Hardware for the last 35 years.  Some will recall the store was not totally all hardware. It was a pet store in the early years, an outlet for motorcycle/moped/snowmobiles, a satellite store, and always a beach store over the years. Jean was instrumental in bringing in house-ware products that built its current reputation today for cooking gadgets and building a customer base that dearly loved her.

Jean always made time for the relatives and was happiest when everyone made it to the cottage. She was a night-owl reading to all hours of the morning, forever baking and canning for an army of relatives. She loved her card and scrabble games, and adored the beach at Sauble.  She hated winter and an annual highlight every year was to California via Calgary to visit relatives. She loved Mexico and always made it a point to visit while in California. Her decorating style was eclectic including indigenous prints next to old masters and many scenes of Mexico.

Jean was very supportive of her local community and business associates. She was a long-time member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Canadian Legion. Jean always enjoyed the social gatherings with Mike and his motorcycle friends.

At Jean’s request she has been cremated. Due to current restrictions no visitation will be held. A private grave side service will be held at a later date. Memorial donations to War Amps Canada would be appreciated.