July 22, 1930 - June 18, 2019
Here's to our mother, grandmother and friend, Doreen Shirley. Fiercely loving and unapologetically genuine, she made the world's best pie, and broke stereotypes long before it was a cool thing to do. We remember her boundless quirky wit and humour, and her courageous and resourceful approach to any challenge.
Doreen is survived by her daughters Gail Franklin and Frances Forgues, sons John and Harry Meredith, grandchildren Len Forgues, Sarah Heighington, Anne and Valerie Franklin, Marlon Kenny, Colin Meredith, and many great-grandchildren.
Doreen and her late husband Frank were longtime residents of Powell River, where she served as a provincial financial assistance worker. A creative and passionate promoter of social justice and community, she was deeply involved in community theatre, the Powell River Chorus, the Raging Grannies, and every Kathaumixw event. Doreen was especially devoted to her family, her Jack Russell terriers, and outdoor adventures.
After Frank's death, Doreen moved to Cumberland to be closer to family. She spent her final years at the Views at St. Joseph's in Comox. She has donated her body to the University of British Columbia, because, as she said, "I always did want to go to medical school."
Our deepest thanks to the staff of The Views for their heartfelt, affectionate care and to Dr. Sue Hunter for her compassionate medical leadership.
In Doreen's memory, please listen to Villa-Lobos' Bachianas Brasileiras No. 5, or anything by the Weavers or Cole Porter.