Maxine Helen Downing

Maxine Helen Downing, 88, of La Grande and a long-time resident of Pullman, Wash., died Nov. 18.

Maxine was born April 25, 1941, to Clarence and Clella (Stiff) Cox in Belgrade, Mont. She was an alumnus of Montana State University. She was married for 53 years to her lifelong sweetheart, Bud Downing, whom she met as a colleague while working as a county Extension agent for Los Angeles County in California. Together they became members of the Westwood Methodist Church, beginning their lifelong marriage adventure with a wedding ceremony and six-week honeymoon in Mexico.

Maxine was a loyal Cougar fan. Those who knew her say she was known for her generous hospitality and gifts of encouragement and creativity. She was skilled in sewing, cooking, gardening and anything else to do with her artistic talents.

The oldest of six, Maxine loved her role as the big sister.

She is survived by her husband, Bud; daughter, Susan (Len) Zylstra of La Grande; siblings, Adare Stetton and Larry Cox; three grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by both of her parents; and siblings, Vivian, Ernestine and Lloyd (Bud).

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Grande Ronde Hospital Hospice Program in La Grande.

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