Anna Christy Downer

Anna Christy Searle Downer was born on March 15, 1974 in Provo, Utah and found herself in the company of over one hundred other infants in the maternity ward at Utah Valley Memorial Hospital. She was the first daughter of Ramon and Judy Searle; a true blessing after three rambunctious boys, with another boy to follow. At age two, Anna accompanied her family on a fishing trip. Her parents discovered half of a worm in the bait container, and after some investigation, learned that the fish were not the only ones biting. Anna responded that the worm tasted like sugar. From a very young age, Anna was bright and precocious. She grew up learning how to fight with boys but wearing ruffly dresses and tending to her doll collection. Anna started school in Twin Falls, Idaho. When Anna was six her family relocated to Kaysville, Utah. It wasn't two years later that the family moved again to Westminster, Colorado, where Anna was raised. Anna was in the first freshman class at Standley Lake High School, where she was active in theater and choir. During her Sophomore year, Anna became acquainted with Miranda Sederstrom, who later joined the family as Anna's long-hoped-for sister. In large part because of Anna's example, Miranda joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Anna was briefly married to Daniel Penrose. Subsequent to her divorce, Anna married the love of her life, Luke Joseph Downer. Anna and Luke would have celebrated their sixth anniversary on July 28th. Anna had a great love for all animals and her ambition was to obtain a degree in family therapy and to specialize in treating children's behavioral disorders through pet therapy. Anna was actively pursuing her degree at the time of her death. Anna will be missed by her dogs '"" Tucker, Lexie, and Hobie, and her cats '"" Byron, Kato, and Sheebu. Anna and Luke frequented the dog park. Anna was an avid fan of the Colorado Avalanche, and collected Avs memorabilia. She enjoyed skiing and was a passionate cook. Anna was a voracious reader, a gifted writer, and loved music and film. Anna taught English as a second language. Anna was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Anna made friends for a lifetime. She was often guilty of spoiling her nieces and nephews, who lovingly thought of Anna as their favorite aunt. Anna worked as a corporate trainer for Innovative Services of America and as a representative for American Presidents Line Shipping. While working for APL, Anna had occasion to travel to various locals for training. Notably, Anna toured the World Trade Center on, and flew home from New York City, New York, on September 10, 2001. Anna and Luke relocated to Scottsdale, Arizona in 2005. At the age of four, Anna was diagnosed with a birth defect that caused frequent kidney infections, which came with greater frequency throughout her life. At the age of fourteen, Anna was diagnosed with diabetes. From her teenage years on, Anna was plagued with various health problems. However, Anna never let her illnesses get the better of her. Anna befriended the nurses and doctors who attended to her needs during her hospitalizations and served as an inspiration to others suffering from chronic illness and trials. While feeling sick herself, Anna was always more concerned with the feelings and needs of others. Notwithstanding her frequent illnesses, Anna demonstrated a zest for life. While Anna's passing is sudden and tragic, she will always be remembered. Anna will be missed as a great wife, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. Service will be held Wednesday, 11AM, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 7080 Independence. Burial at Golden Cemetery. Family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to service. Contributions may be made to The Anna Searle Downer Memorial C/O Laura Schick 303 730-5440.