Doreen Marion Latimer
March 28, 1934 – November 9, 2023
A Celebration of Life will take place on Friday, June 21, 2024 at The Centre at 12 p.m.
In loving memory of Doreen Latimer who passed away peacefully with family by her side.
Doreen was born in Arnprior, Ontario and grew up just outside of Renfrew on her family’s farm. She was an excellent student and graduated from nursing school in Kingston – class of 1953. After finishing school, she and a friend worked their way west ending up in Kenora working at Lake of the Woods Hospital.
Doreen loved her time in Kenora, but fate intervened when she met Bob Latimer, a handsome young man from the Dryden area. They married in 1958 and settled down in his hometown of Oxdrift.
Together they lived a wonderful life on the farm while raising three children. Doreen resumed her career as a nurse at Dryden Hospital – a position she held for thirty-five years.
She loved her job and made a lasting impression on staff and patients with her kindness and compassion – traits she brought to all aspects of her life.
She and Bob were wonderful parents – committed to and supportive of their children while encouraging them in all their endeavours. She was proud to see them graduate from post-secondary education to pursue challenging and rewarding careers.
Her kitchen remained the centre of family life on holidays and special occasions for many years. She was an excellent baker, a skilled dominos player and a mildly enthusiastic camper. She planted and maintained lovely flower gardens and took joy in the variety of birds that visited the property.
Doreen’s retirement was full of joy as she spent time with her favourite people in the world – her four grandchildren. She remained close to them for her entire life and revelled in their accomplishments and their love.
She lived her life with an open heart and left with no regrets. We will miss her so very much.
Doreen is survived by her three children – Brad, Debbie (Russ) and Janice (David.) Grandchildren – Kevin (Sarah), Dana (Brady), Andrew and Angela (Mike). Her brother Willis and sister Edith. She was predeceased by her loving husband – Bob, her sister – Jean and her parents Herbert and Sadie Runtz.
The family wishes to thank the doctors and nurses at the Dryden Regional Health Centre. We will always be grateful for the care and kindness you showed. Special thanks to Drs. Viherjoki and Bester who knew her best.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the First United Church, 23 Van Horne Avenue, Dryden, ON. P8N 2A6
Arrangements entrusted to the Dryden Community Funeral Home, 249 Grand Trunk Avenue, Dryden, ON P8N 2X3
