Doreen Beatrice Oakes

It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of Doreen Beatrice (Watchorn) Oakes beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Doreen passed away peacefully on March 14th, 2026 at the age of 91.

Born on December 31st, 1934 in Assiniboia, Saskatchewan, Doreen and her twin sister were the youngest of 6 children born to John Sr. and Elizabeth (Maebank) Watchorn. She was predeceased by her parents, sisters Marjorie McGirr and Olive Pettem, and brothers Robert and John Watchorn. She is survived by her husband Richard Oakes and five children: Garry Oakes (Kathy), Heather and Holly Oakes, Stuart Oakes (Jennifer), and Dawna Youngstrom (Erick) as well as grandchildren Tamara and Sarah Oakes, Jennifer (Sam) Vanderstoop; Sam, Finley, and Delaney Oakes; Jack, Kaitlyn and Spencer Youngstrom; as well as her twin sister Dorothy Platzer, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Doreen spent her younger years in Assiniboia growing up on the family farm before moving to Salmon Arm from grade 8 until graduation. She developed a love for the outdoors enjoying volleyball, softball, and many other activities. Doreen’s active and caring spirit defined much of her life; inspiring her to attend Nursing school in Moose Jaw from 1954-57 with her sister Dot. After graduating from nursing, she worked as a nurse in Rockglen before setting out on a one-year international adventure – working in England at a TB sanitorium and then travelling extensively through Europe.

When Doreen returned to Rockglen, she met Richard in1962 and married the love of her life in 1963 – giving them a full 62 and ¾ yrs of marriage!!

In the early days, they spent time in Michigan where Doreen worked as a nurse while Richard was doing his internship before their first child Garry came along in 1965. Twins came along quickly after that – Heather & Holly (born in Michigan), followed by Stuart and finally Dawna (both born in Medicine Hat). In 1979 the Oakes family moved to Brooks where they lived until 2000. In every town they called home, Doreen became an integral part of the community raising 5 busy children, volunteering in many church and community activities, and assisting a Dr. with a hectic schedule at home and in the office!

After retirement Doreen & Richard moved home to Rockglen where she became active with the Rockettes, tourism, and other community services where she gave generously of her time.

Doreen was a devoted wife, a loving mother, and an exceptionally proud grandmother. She will be remembered for her nurturing spirit, deep commitment to her family, her faith, and her community.

A Funeral service will be held at the Rockglen Community Hall, Rockglen, SK on March 21st, 2026 at 1pm. Deacon Arleen Champion officiating. Pallbearers: Garry Oakes, Stuart Oakes, Sam Oakes, Eric Youngstrom, Jack Youngstrom, Ron Justus. Doreen will be laid to rest in Morgan Cemetery, Wood Mountain, SK where she will forever be remembered with love and respect by all who knew her. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy for Doreen’s family may be shared at www.rossfuneralservice.com. Arrangements entrusted to Ross Funeral Service, Assiniboia, SK

For floral orders please contact Moms Florist 306-642-4777

www.momsfloristassiniboia.com