Downey…..Verna Zella Layton Dixon Baucke, 91, longtime Downey resident, passed away on June 1, 2012. She was born to Orson A. and Rozella Stones Layton on December 22, 1920, in Downey and was the oldest of four girls. Verna was raised on the family farm, where she learned many skills and came to know the satisfaction of a job well done. She attended school in Downey and Cambridge and was a graduate of Downey High School, class of 1939. She married Bill Dixon in 1941 and he passed away in 1972. She then worked as a nurse’s aide at the Downey Hospital for several years, where she gave excellent and compassionate care to many people. She later married Roy Baucke, who brought a whole new family into her life. she and Roy enjoyed traveling to many places in the western states. Roy passed away in 1990. Verna made many enduring friendships on her journey through life. She had a special gift of caring for others, especially those with health or other problems. She was a wonderful homemaker but also loved outdoor activities as well. She saw many changes in the world through her years and always maintained a happy and positive nature through it all. Her kindness extended to everyone and no one could leave her home without something to eat. She was a lifetime member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and had enjoyed serving in the Scouting program. Verna was the best mother in the world to her children; Dixie (and the late Jack) Day of Downey; Bill C. (Lana) Dixon of Downey. She was also the beloved grandmother of 7 great, grandmother to 19, and great-great-grandmother to 7. Verna was also a favorite “Aunt Gena”, to many. Also, surviving are two sisters; Fay Barfuss of Downey and LuAnn (Dave) McClure of McCammon. She was preceded by her parents, husbands, and a sister; Lita Preece. The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Karen Jones, the nurses, doctors, and staff, who all lovingly cared for Verna. The family suggests memorials to the Primary Children’s Hospital. Funeral services will be held Thursday, June 7, 2012, at 12 noon in the Downey LDS ward Chapel, Bishop Rex Nielsen, officiating. Friends may visit with the family on Wednesday evening June 6 from 7-8 pm at the church and prior to services Thursday from 10:30-11:30 am. Burial will follow in the Cambridge Cemetery.