Beverly Vinson dies at 88

DOWNEY – Former Downey resident Beverly Vinson passed away peacefully Feb. 9 after a long battle with cancer. She was 88. She was born April 23, 1926 and grew up in Tacoma, Wash. She graduated from the University of Washington and had a lifelong interest in education, music, fashion and art.

She married Ken Busse and they settled in Downey. Their three children have their own: Mark and Robin Busse with Nicole in Castle Rock, Colo.; Mike and Karen Busse with Shannon and Amber in Nevada City, Calif.; and Paula and Tom Philbrick with Graham and Tilly in Newtown, Conn.

Beverly volunteered regularly, beginning in P.E.O. in college (a sisterhood dedicated to education).

Beverly cared for Ken during his final days. Later, she shared her life with Bob Vinson, an acquaintance from college.

After Bob died, Beverly lived with her daughter and her son before moving to Bonaventure of Castle Rock, a senior living community.

According to her wishes, Beverly was cremated, and family and friends will gather for a celebration of life this spring at Garden of the Gods Public Park in Colorado Springs. There will be no formal funeral.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggested donations to the Star Scholarship program though P.E.O. International.

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Published: Feb. 26, 2015 - Volume 13 - Issue 46