Darlene “Sharon” Downey, 70, of Lake in the Hills, passed away peacefully with her spouse and best friend at her side on Tuesday, February 6, 2018 at Centegra Hospital in Huntley.
She was born April 30, 1947 in Camrose, Alberta, Canada, the daughter of Joseph A. and Magdalene Strilchuk. She was united in marriage to Brian F. Downey on August 12, 1989 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. During her working career, she worked as an executive secretary in the financial industry.
Sharon graduated with a diploma from Sheffield School of Interior Design, where she earned an award of merit. She loved interior designing, golfing with her friends and cuisine.
She is survived by her husband, Brian, her step-son, Dean (Sandra) Downey and her step-daughter, Barbara (Conrad) Journault, her grandchildren, Megan (Evan) Milburn, Jason (Pua) Downey, Leif and Michelle Journault, all of Calgary, Alberta, her brothers, Dennis (Becky) Strilchuk, Ted (Ona) Strilchuk, her sisters, Kathy Cornish, June Niven & Cleone Lucas. She was predeceased by her parents, her sisters, Irene Doyle, Mary Alice Strilchuk, Delrose Wilk and Gail Lancaster and her cherished twin brother, Ken Strilchuk who passed away on April 12, 2016.
A Celebration of Sharon’s Life will be held on Wednesday, February 14th from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. at Boulder Ridge Country Club in Lake in the Hills. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or a charity of one’s choice. For more information please call 847-515-8772 or online condolences can be directed to www.defiorejorgensen.com
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Brian: I am deeply moved upon hearing of the untimely death of your dear wife Sharon and want to extend our deep sympathy in this, your hour of trial. It was our privilege to know Sharon and realize the extent of the loss you and your family sustained. Death is the inevitable goal, and there may be some small degree of consolation in the thought that death is but a narrow starlit strip between the companionship of yesterday and the happy reunion of tomorrow. May this thought help you to carry on. Sincerely, the Gorman's.
Dear Brian and family, We share your sadness at Sharon's passing. May the many memories of wonderful times together sustain you at this difficult time. Sharon approached life with grace and generosity, sharing her time and talents with friends and family. She will be missed. Jo-Anne and Lloyd
Brian and Family, We were saddened to learn of Sharon's passing. It was a pleasure to have met Sharon at Downey family gatherings over the past number of years. Our sincere condolences to you and all the Family. Sincerely, Linda Peterat and Colin & Donna Stout of British Columbia, Canada.