Catharine Jean Downing

Catharine Jean Downing, 81, of Johnstown, passed away on August 5, 2023, surrounded by family. She was born in Johnstown, Ohio on April 4, 1942 to Burton and Marguerite (Mathews) Ashbrook. She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Jim Downing; children, Tony Downing of Wisconsin, Karen (Lee) Mansell of Johnstown, Rich (Andrea) Downing of Michigan; grandchildren, Katelyn (Michael) Reeves of Delaware, OH, Heather Mansell and David Mansell of Johnstown, Jai Downing and Rachel Downing of Michigan, and Preston Downing of Wisconsin; great-grandchildren, Charlotte and Harrison Reeves; siblings, Keith (Carol) Ashbrook of Johnstown, Larry Lee Ashbrook of Florida, Nancy (Larry) Caudle of Louisiana, and Laura Mankins of Johnstown; and lots of nieces, nephews and their families. She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Robert (Linda) Ashbrook, Louise (Gene) Wine, Betty (Tom) Davis, Dale Ashbrook, Phyllis Ashbrook, Marilyn (Larry) Rhodeback, Pauline (Bill) Rice, and Marrell Ashbrook. Catharine was a 1960 graduate of Johnstown High School and spent most of her life in Johnstown raising her family. She devoted her life to her home and raising her children and grandchildren. She spent her time volunteering at the schools and supporting various activities that her children and grandchildren were involved in including Pioneer days, chaperoning trips, driving the Instrument Van for band, and sewing costumes – to name a few. In addition, she worked part time for many years at the Red and White Grocery store in Johnstown and then retired after 25 years of service from Kohls in Westerville. Friends may call from 2-5 p.m. on Sunday, August 13, 2023 at CROUSE-KAUBER-FRALEY FUNERAL HOME, 225 N. Main St., Johnstown, OH 43031. Funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m. on Monday at the funeral home with Pastor Kevin Heckathorn officiating. Interment will follow at Green Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to a Johnstown Organization or blood donations to the American Red Cross.