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DEANNE CATHERINE DOWNEY
Date of Passing: Mar 01, 2026
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryDEANNE CATHERINE DOWNEY
It is with deep sadness the family announces the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, sister and friend, Deanne Catherine Downey (nee Whillans) on Sunday, March 1, 2026, with her two daughters by her side.
Deanne leaves to mourn her memory, her daughters Kimberly (Shawn), Lisa (Daniel), her adored grandchildren Breanne, Janie, Sarah, and Colton. She is also survived by her brother, Peter, whom she was a devoted sister to, her siblings-in-law, and many nieces and nephews.
Deanne was predeceased by her beloved husband and best friend Verne in 2005, as well as her mother, Camilla; father, Clifford; father-in-law, Norman; and mother-in-law, Vivian.
Deanne was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Deanne took great pride in becoming a registered nurse working at the Misericordia Hospital, and later the Manitoba Clinic. Deanne’s compassion for others brought great comfort to many, which led her to become an educational assistant within the Seven Oaks school division.
Deanne met Verne in 1965, and they married on October 26, 1968, her 22nd birthday. During their 36 years of marriage, they treasured the friendships they made, which often consisted of late night canasta games, camping, visits to the oasis and family trips with those they loved.
Despite facing many years of health challenges, Deanne’s love for spending time with her family, friends and neighbours brought happiness into the lives around her. Deanne cared deeply about everyone she knew, and she was a source of comfort for everyone in her family and will leave a space in our hearts that cannot be filled.
Throughout her life she made lasting friendships that she treasured. Deanne cherished her many days spent with Carol, a wonderful neighbour and true friend.
Deanne’s family would like to express their sincere gratitude to Dr. Kong for her compassion and overall kindness in supporting our mom for her last 30 years.
A celebration of life will be held Friday, March 13, 2026 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Glen Eden Funeral Home Reception Center, 4477 Main St. West St. Paul, MB.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Winnipeg Humane Society.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 07, 2026
Condolences & Memories (5 entries)
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We are saddened to hear about Deanne's passing. We met Deanne when my husband Walter was in Seven Oaks Hospital Rehab Program. They were roommates and became good friends in that short period of time. Deanne would always lend a helping hand when Walter needed assistance to use the hospital phone. They talked about family and mutual friends. They always had conversations to pass the time, and a few jokes as well. Our sincere condolences to the family. Your Mom was a kind hearted person and we will always remember her. - Posted by: Walter & Carol Kowalenko (Friend) on: Mar 10, 2026
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I met Deanne when I worked at the Manitoba Clinic in the late 60’s. We soon became friends with Verne and Deanne. Fondly remember many good times we shared. Our blended families spent many happy moments together. We remember these good times always with a smile on our faces. I treasured her Deanne’s friendship over the years . Our sincere condolences to the family. . - Posted by: Pat and Harold Winters (Friends) on: Mar 08, 2026
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We would like to extend our condolences to your family. Deanne ( a.k.a. Mrs. Downey as my kids called her) it was a very special neighbour who always had a smile on her face and a welcoming nature. She often sat in her garage and to anyone passing by she would wave hello. I appreciated the many opportunities I had to sit with her and just talk. My kids would hang out too and they still remember the little freezies or treats Deanne offered them while visiting, and she always had a special bag of treats for them at Halloween. Since we moved away in 2022 we came back to visit her once at Her home and stopped by every Halloween since then. We will cherish the memories we have with Mrs. Downey – the best neighbour one could ever have. Sincerely, Peter, Joanna, Justyna, Katalina. - Posted by: Joanna Gustave and Peter Cindric (Neighbours from Lister Rapids) on: Mar 08, 2026
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Dear Kim and family. I’d like to offer you my sincere sympathy in the passing of your kind and caring Mom. May your family find daily strength in sharing her memories. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Warmly, Charlotte Livingston. - Posted by: Charlotte Livingston (Co worker in Seven Oaks) on: Mar 07, 2026
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Kim and Sarah, We wish to express our deepest condolences for your loss! Kevin, Dasan and Kaylee - Posted by: Kevin, Dasan and Kaylee (Friend) on: Mar 07, 2026
