Lena Marie Downing

Lena Marie Downing, 90, Overland Park, KS passed away Saturday, Jan. 27, 2018 at the Westchester Village of Lenexa, KS.

Lena was born on a farm outside of Otterville, MO on April 22, 1927 to Henry and Lydia Marie Lewis. She was the valedictorian graduate of Smith-Cotton High School in Sedalia, MO in 1945. She later relocated to Kansas City where she married, William D. Downing. Lena worked for many years at the University of Kansas Hospital Medical School in the History of Medicine Department. Following her retirement she devoted her time to her grandchildren.

Lena was preceded in death by her husband William, Sr. in 1989, son, William "Don" Downing, Jr. in 1978 and brother, Ted Lewis. She is survived by her son, Michael (Sherri) Downing, Overland Park, KS; grandchildren, William Parker Downing, Sarah Pope, and Ashley Downing; and great grandson, Owen Michael Pope.

Graveside service will be 2:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 9 at the Leavenworth National Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.