Carol J. Downs, 81, Pittsville, passed away on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at Marshfield Medical Center.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Carol was born on June 3, 1943 in Superior to Alton “Jake” and Ruth (Keefe) Jacobson. She graduated from Superior East High School in 1961. Carol was united in marriage to John “Jack” Downs on July 4, 1964 in Carlton County, Minnesota. They later divorced.
Carol cared for her children at home when they were young, worked in foster care, elderly home health, and provided shelter for abused women. She also worked as a waitress. Most recently, Carol lovingly cared for MaryAnn Pember during her illness, and following her passing, Carol and Butch Pember, became close friends which developed into a 12 year companionship. In her retirement years, Carol loved her weekend drives with Butch and spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She also enjoyed gardening and bird watching.
She is survived by her sons, John (Marlis) Downs of Pittsville and Greg (Jenny) Downs of Gordon, daughter, Jodie Downs of Superior, grandchildren, Michael Downs (Ashley), Christopher (Marie) Downs, Hannah (Brian) Resheske, Paul Downs (fiancé Cindy), Sarah Downs, Bekah Downs, Joey Downs, Leah Downs, Justin (Kayla) Downs, Josh Downs, Jamie Downs, and Peyton Downs, and 5 great grandchildren.
She is further survived by her brother, John Jacobson (Jan) of Town of Superior.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Alton and Ruth, husband, John “Jack” Downs, son, Steven Downs, and sister, Karen Joos.
The family requests that those that Carol served as foster youth, shelter women and others, please share your story and how she touched the world we live in. You may also share your contact info here so we are able to share the time in August for her Celebration of Life.
Author: News Desk
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