Doreen Julia Armstrong

She will be greatly missed by her husband James and her 5 children. Kevin Armstrong, Joanne Munro (Kevin) Kayla and Parker, Jodie Wyporowich (Monty) Mia and Alex, Dianne Needham Josh, Owen and Blake, Krista Stevens (Wade) Paxton and Everleigh. She is also survived by her brother Arnold Barsi (Jean), niece Torey McLean(Jason) , sister Elsie Bond and nephew Corey Bond(Tara), brother in law David Armstrong, nephews Jason Armstrong (Leanne), Chris Armstrong and Brad Armstrong and 6 great nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents Frank and Helen, sister Edith (Armstrong), brother in law Gordie Bond and nephew Wayne Barsi.

Doreen was born in Whitewood on April 14, 1948 to Frank and Helen Barsi. Jim and Doreen were married on August 30, 1969. They settled in Kennedy and welcomed a son (1974) followed by twin daughters (1978), another daughter (1982) and yet another daughter in (1984)! Doreen stayed home to raise her family. She gained a special spot in numerous families’ lives while she provided childcare for them. She was known as Grandma Doreen to many children through the years. She never lost her sense of wonder which is probably why she was able to connect with kids so well. Mom had a love of baking and cooking and she has the recipe collection to prove it! Many memories of her involve baking and we all had our favourites. There were always buns, cakes and cookies when we were growing up. Somehow each daughter has learned a family favourite to pass down. Mom loved music and would collect 8 tracks, records and cassettes. Thankfully her son loves music too and was able to help her track down her hard to find songs. He also introduced her to You Tube where she would spend hours listening to any song she wanted. Doreen re-entered the workforce at Moose Mountain Provincial Park in Maintenance until her retirement in 2016. There she was able to make more connections with people and students that she met. Many of those relationships continue to this day. There she found more “kids” to enjoy with the university students. As much as she was ready for her retirement she had a hard time knowing she wouldn’t get to see some again or meet new ones. We heard many names over the years and she kept up with many on Facebook. One student (and his mom Liane) had a special place in her heart. Riley Kenler and Mom had a special connection and his calls and visits always made her day. She was one of the most sincere people we knew and could talk to anyone. She was truly curious and interested in all they had to say. People like this are rare in the world and we are lucky to have known one. Mom was friends with an eclectic group of ladies with a wide range of personalities. They would meet for lunch, celebrate holidays and they provided support and friendship to Mom over the years. Mom was a quiet gentle soul. She really noticed people and rarely found a flaw in anyone. Mom was witty and many appreciated her humour and could be found laughing in her presence. She truly took the time to notice and appreciate her surroundings. She loved being outside with her flowers and her garden; or to sit in her chair and just be. Mom often went without so we never had to. As we became parents we had a new found appreciation of our upbringing. She accepted her grandchildren unconditionally with all their unique personalities. As each grandchild arrived she accepted and created a unique bond with each one. She made each one feel special. As parents when we were frustrated, she would reassure us by saying she had never met a perfect child. Their memories of Grandma highlight that it’s the little things in life that matter most. Grandma and Grandpa were always willing to help and we are grateful they played such a huge part in our children’s lives. We already miss your voice and your presence. You fought hard and we’re glad you’re at peace. We hope Auntie Edith was waiting for you because we know how much you missed her. We know you started your guardian angel role as soon as you left and know you will be watching over us all. Until we meet again… we love you.