Mary Downs Mowry

toddler. Her older brother, Bertram Downs, was one of her best friends. Her mother and father

separated when she was 13 years of age, which further fostered the strong bond Mary had with

her mother. Mary attended Pomona College and graduated as a zoology major, training to work

thereafter as a laboratory technologist.

Mary met Robert Mowry after college and were married shortly thereafter. Their son, Robert,

was born, followed by Richard, then Jeanne and Linda. Mary was always very busy raising and

supporting her children, with whom Mary and Bob went on vacations to Bakersfield, Idyllwild,

Palm Springs, San Juan Capistrano, Boulder and Kauai.

Bob was forced to quit his medical practice when the children were still young due to

Parkinson’s disease. While this caused obvious stress for the family, Mary took such detours in

life in stride, and gradually assumed the role of primary care provider not only for the four

children, but also of her husband Bob. Despite Bob’s physical disabilities, Mary and Bob were

able to take many international trips with Linda and other family members.

Unfortunately, Bob suddenly had further complications leading to his premature death. Mary

continued in her work with the Parkinson’s Support Group in San Diego, which she and Bob

founded, and which became a model for similar support groups around the country. She was

honored for this work in 2009.

After several years, Mary met her next life partner, Russell Rhue. Mary and Russ coordinated

several wonderful summer trips for the whole Mowry clan to enjoy together. Mary always was

very organized, planning each step of summer birthday celebrations and meals. She relished

the time together, group pictures, water balloon tosses, and swimming. The family reunions

were highlights of summer for Mary’s eight grandchildren.

After Russ’ passing, Mary moved to Fredericka Manor. Mary spent Christmas 2019 with the

extended family. She spent her last week and a half with Linda who facilitated virtual

connections with the other family members (due to COVID-19) prior to Mary’s sudden and

unexpected passing. Mary was happy to meet at a distance her new great-granddaughter, as

well. It was a very happy week, and Mary continued to be the same gracious, considerate,

thoughtful and loving mother she was throughout her life.

She passed away with her four children by her side. She will be sorely missed and will continue

to live on through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild.