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.
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