A Life Remembered
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Doreen O’Neill, a beloved daughter, sister, and dedicated social worker. Doreen’s journey began in Lethbridge, Alberta, where she was born in October 1945 to Ann and Hugh O’Neill. Her life touched many, leaving behind cherished memories and a legacy of compassion.
Doreen was bright, funny and witty in an unconventional way and as a result everyone found her entertaining and a joy to be with. Despite her expressions of opinion Doreen had a heart of gold. No one ever had to guess how Doreen really felt because she would always speak her mind and express herself bluntly.
Doreen was preceded in death by her brother James in 1942, sister Marylou in 2014. She leaves behind her sisters Peggy (San Jose) and Karen, as well as her brother-in-law Stephen in Victoria, BC, and brother-in-law Bruce Winge in Silver Springs, Colorado.
Doreen’s love extended to her nieces, nephews, and friends across the United States and Victoria, BC, including grandnephews Alex (2 and a half years old) and William (5 years old).
A Funeral Service will be held at St. Andrew’s Cathedral, 740 View Street, Victoria, BC on Thursday, April 11, 2024 at 1:30 pm with a reception to follow in Seeger’s Hall within the cathedral. Please join us in celebrating Doreen’s life.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to a charity close to your heart. Let us honor Doreen’s memory by continuing her legacy of compassion. Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Heather Azim
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Connie Mckenzie I met Doreen about 10 years ago on a pilgrimage to Poland and Czechoslovakia. She was a great fun companion to travel with, and certainly enjoyed exploring the world outside of home. We did a second pilgrimage about a year later to Lourdes and Fatima. Both times we enjoyed each other‘s company and endeavour to keep in touch in the years following the trips. Her great sense of humour, and the twinkle in her eye added a lot of joy to our travelling groups.
Doreen always spoke so lovingly of her family. She will be missed. Rest in peace, Connie.
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Ellen Luttmann Doreen’s keen interest in the garden of her last home was appreciated by our Grounds Committee when she had been a volunteer. Her gift of irises from her family’s garden will bloom in her memory. Rest in peace.
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Marilyn Bater When we arrived in Victoria 32 years ago, Doreen immediately took me under her wing at work. We had many laughs there and particularly in our personal lives. I enjoyed her straightforward approach to life. Jim and I will miss seeing her and hearing her laughter.
Marilyn Bater and Jim Williams
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Joe and Christine Kenward Dear Karen and Steve.
We met Doreen nearly 54 years ago when Christine moved into the nurse’s residence in Fernie.
Doreen quickly became a good friend, and that friendship has lasted all these years through many moves. We were always lucky to stay connected and saw Doreen many times, most recently in Victoria and when she was visiting in Kamloops.
We loved her sense of humour and that little “twinkle in her eye” when she was being “cheeky”.
We were in Victoria recently and had planned on visiting her, but had to cancel because she wasn’t feeling up to it that day.
We were fortunate to have Doreen as such a special friend, and we offer our deepest condolences to you and your family.
Sincerely
Joe and Christine Kenward
Kamloops
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Alex and Lin Dougall Our heartfelt sympathies for your loss. She spoke often of her beloved family.
We had fun together both at work and play, Doreen was always amusing and entertaining to be with.
I shall miss the fun friendly smiling face across the table..
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Jaime Doreen’s strong spirit stays with me in memory. It was a privilege to meet her and work closely with her. Warm regards.
Doreen, you will be missed. May you walk in peace.
Love
The Azims
Nika, Heather, and Mehrdad