Helen Louise Downs (nee Hackett), 97 of LaGrange passed away Sunday March 12, 2017 at Arden Courts assisted living in Westlake, Oh, where she has lived for the past 10 years. She was being cared for dementia, but had previously lived on Whitehead Rd. LaGrange,Oh. since 1948. She had been married to George Downs for 65 years, who is previously deceased in 2006. Helen was born in Plymouth,Oh , moved to Elyria at age 16 years, graduated from Elyria High in 1936 and worked in retail sales in Elyria, including Walter's shoes and Style Center. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Church, Grafton where she participated in the Altar Society and helped out with many church social activities. Helen will be remembered for her positive attitude and sunny outlook which she generously shared with her neighbors and extended family members. Survivors include her son Dennis (Cynthia) of Washington, DC; five grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband George; foster son John Krawczyk; sister Leola Bonesse; brother Elmer Hackett. Family will receive friends 6-8 PM Thursday March 16, 2017 at the Laubenthal-Mercado Funeral Home and Cremation Service 38475 Chestnut Ridge Rd. (at St. Rt. 57), Elyria.440-322-4626. Mass of Christian Burial 10 AM Friday March 17, 2017 at Our Lady Queen of Peace Church 708 Erie St. Grafton,Oh (PLEASE MEET AT CHURCH). Rev. Fr. John Seabold will be the Celebrant. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery (Grafton). In lieu of flowers family suggests those who wish may make contributions to Heartland Hospice 4807 Rockside Rd. Suite 110 Independence , Oh. 44131 or Alzheimer's Association Cleveland area Chapter P.O. Box 74924 Cleveland, Ohio 44194-4924. Online condolences may be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com

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