Katherine Ellis Downs

Katherine Ellis Downs, 85, of Manhattan Beach, died on Monday, October 24, 2011. She was born in Berkeley, California and was raised by her mother, the late Ida Bee Ellis. Katie graduated from Los Angeles High School and attended the University of Southern California. She married Kenneth Downs in 1947, and they lived their entire married life in Manhattan Beach, CA. Katie worked in the library at Robinson Elementary School and later in the offices of the South Bay Adult School. She enjoyed her life in Manhattan Beach spending time with her many friends playing tennis, golf and bridge and keeping an eye on her children as they grew up on the beach. Their house at eight street and Strand was a hub for the beach lifestyle—surf boards, volleyballs, towels, bikes and lots of kids. She offered first aid, advice, commands and smiles. Katie loved to travel, and took several cruise trips with her husband in her lifetime. She and Ken lived in Europe for a year after their retirement. Katie is survived by her husband Kenneth and her three sons: Michael Downs of Solana Beach, Thomas Downs of San Pedro, and Andrew Downs of Manhattan Beach. Her daughter Claudia Petroni passed away last August, 2011. She also is survived by eight grandchildren including Morgan Brasfield, Max Downs, Vito and Sergio Petroni, and Brandon Downs. May she rest in peace…