Jeanne Downey
July 03, 1957 - April 18, 2010
Obituary
Jeanne Marie (Bursch) Downey, 52, passed away Sunday, April 18, 2010 in Billings, MT. She succumbed to her seven year battle with inflammatory breast cancer and the Lord took her home. Jeanne was born July 3, 1957 at St. Marys Hospital in Minneapolis, MN, the daughter of Jerome Michael and Anna Mary (Schyma) Bursch, of Zimmerman, MN. She graduated from St. Francis High School, St. Francis, MN. She attended college in Anoka, MN, and went on to get her Bachelors degree in Business in Phoenix, AZ. She obtained her first Masters degree in AZ and her second from MSU-Billings. Jeanne worked for the United States Postal Service for 22 years, leaving in June 2009, due to health reasons. She was the first woman Postmaster in Billings and later the manager of Postal Operations for Eastern Montana; she was also a postmaster in Great Falls, MT.During her life, Jeanne continuously demonstrated her love for people as well as animals. She loved her family, especially her son and daughter, Nathan Joseph and Nicole Rose Downey. Jeanne was the oldest of eight children, and though she never had a horse while growing up, she later owned 88 horses. Her spirits were always lifted while watching them run in the fields. She loved riding her horses and shared this passion with her husband, Richard Michael Downey, who was not only her true love, but also her companion and best friend. Jeanne lit up every room she entered with her bright smile and eyes. She was a remarkable wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend.Jeanne is survived by her husband; her children; her parents; brothers: Ronald (Lynn) of Crystal, MN, Duane of Zimmerman, MN, David of Blaine, MN, James and John, both of Zimmerman, MN; sisters: Janet Handel of Andover, MN and Geri Ann Emmans of Blaine, MN; and many aunts, uncles, nephews and cousins.Memorial Services for Jeanne will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 24 at St. Bernards Parish in Billings. The reception will be at St. Cyril and Methodius Church in Ballantine. She will be meeting all her loved ones that preceded her in death.Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.dahlfuneralchapel.com.
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Memories
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Lisa Olson
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Dear family of Jeanne: We extend our sympathies to you as you grieve the loss of a beautiful woman with a beautiful soul. May you be comforted in knowing she is in heaven, free from pain and suffering. Sincerely, Lisa and Bret Olson and family Zimmerman, Minnesota (Neighbors of Jerry and Ann)
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Marian Watt
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Although I only knew Jeanne through the PO she was a strong person. She was my MPOO and I know she will be missed by all who knew her. My prayers go out to all the family and friends. Brusett PO
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Sherry Stambaugh
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There are no words to convey how sorry I am at the loss of Jeanne: she was so wonderful to me as a boss and as a dearly loved friend. Though I retired shortly before she did, and didn't get to see her again, I will remember and miss her the rest of my life. Few people have touched me as she did. Rich, you are blessed to have known her and to have a small part of her in your kids. I know she is with all of our loved ones who have gone before, and we'll see her again. God bless you and your family. Sherry Stambaugh
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Virginia Nava
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Rich & children we are so sorry to hear of Jeanne's passing & are glad to have known the both of you,our hearts go out to all of you. We will keep you in our Prayers, God Bless! Virginia Nava & Frank Thomas
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Vic and Clara Weil
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We met Jeanne several times and shared special times with her at Richard's side of the family. We remember as a very courageous woman, determined to do everything to heal the cancer that invaded her body. She was very brave, and will be missed. May God welcome her into paradise.
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Lori Peters
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To Jeanne's family, God Bless you in your time of sorrow. I knew Jeanne for a short time when I worked as a Postmaster in a small office, and she was the district Manager. I found her to be a very genuine and kind-hearted woman. She had a positive impact on me, and my heart is with you at this time. Jeanne, shine on in heaven.