Doreen passed peacefully on March 7, 2023 following a brief illness. She will be missed dearly by her sons Kevin and Jeffrey, daughters-in-law Anita and Linda, and grandchildren Nelson and Jessica. She was predeceased by her husband Ken, parents Henry and Molly Horn, and brother Gary.
Doreen was born and raised in Winnipeg’s North End. She faced many adversities during her life, none more devastating than the sudden and unexpected loss of her beloved husband Ken. She managed with courage and strength, along with support from her faith, family and friends. She persevered and successfully raised her two boys as a single mom. She remained strong, courageous and supported through a variety of health challenges.
She was eager and quick to assist any family member or friend in need. The doors to her house were always open and accompanied with generous hospitality. Her friends, cousins and other relatives meant the world to her. She loved hosting her out of town visitors. She also had many memorable adventures travelling with her friends, but equally enjoyed their regular Saturday dinners or Sunday drives. She loved lounging in the sun and the times spent with Jeff and Linda at the lake.
She cherished her two grandchildren and loved seeing their growth and development. She was so proud of them and their accomplishments.
Her flower gardens kept her busy during the spring and summer. Evenings were often spent admiring her impatiens and geraniums from either the front porch or back screen room with a cup of coffee or a Coke and a chocolate bar in hand.
Doreen loved animals especially birds, with ducks being her favorite and subject of much of her talented needle work. The visits from the family dogs always brought her comfort and a smile. Doreen never missed giving them her famous “skritching” behind the ears.
She lived in her home independently until 2017 when her memory loss, the only health challenge she could not defeat, prevailed. Her memory progressively failed and ultimately prevented her from living safely on her own. Ironically, she could remember details from decades gone by like yesterday, but had limited capacity for recent recollection.
Luther Home then became her new home. Doreen received exceptional care there. She participated in many events and activities. Music therapy was one of her favourites. Regular visits from family and friends continued, along with dinners and celebrations of special occasions, until the pandemic interfered. Then visits were managed with precautions in the visitation pod or outdoors when permitted. She was fortunate to have avoided COVID. Her family remains thankful for the precautions taken and the home’s extraordinary efforts in that difficult fight.
Her 92nd, and last birthday was celebrated happily In January with a Jeannies cake, of course. She enjoyed it to the last crumb.
A celebration of her life will be held on Friday, June 16 at 11:00 a.m. at Larter’s Golf and Country Club, 30 River Road, St. Andrews.
In memory of Doreen, donations may be made to Luther Home 1081 Andrews Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba R2V 2G9 or to a charity of your choice.
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