Doreen Frances Dunkley (Ellston)

It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mom, Doreen Frances Dunkley (Ellston). Doreen passed away in the early morning of Saturday, October 21st with her three children by her side. She lived an amazing life surrounded by family and many friends, that came to end after a courageous and hard fought battle with pancreatic cancer. She was 77 years old.

Nana left an amazing legacy of positivity and resilience that carries on in those that knew her best. Doreen was an authentic person who always put her family and friends first. An outstanding and devoted mother to her three children, she eventually became a proud and incredible Nana to her three precious grandchildren. Nana will be deeply missed and remembered by son Sean and his wife Stacee Martin; son Ryan, wife Colleen, and their three children Kai, Hope and Neve; daughter and best friend Tara, and her partner Rob Bignell; and her children’s father, Barry.

Pre-deceased by her brother, Don, Doreen will also be greatly missed by her “sister of the heart”, Myrna Ellston and family, Tanya Ellston and Ken Ellston. Doreen also had an amazing array of friends, many of whom visited and shared love until the very end.

Doreen took on life with a contagious positivity and spirit of kindness. As a mom, she always supported and encouraged her children through all of life’s challenges and changes and her strength, sense of humour and happy disposition are woven into her family and those closest to her.

Doreen left a lasting impact on many communities. Born in Calgary, AB, she raised her children in their early years in Kamloops, BC, before the family eventually settled in the community of Sherwood Park, AB. Doreen spent many rewarding years working at the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Dentistry before eventually retiring from NAIT’s Department of Dental Assisting after over 15 years of service. She also volunteered for many years with the charitable organization Kindness in Action, providing dental care to villages throughout Central and South America.

A lover of travel, nature, reading, and more recently, the ukulele, Doreen spent her retirement years as an active and vibrant member of the Riverdale community (Edmonton). Her deep love for animals meant many pets were cared for, adopted and rescued into her loving homes throughout her life.

Our family expresses sincere appreciation to all the health care professionals that cared for Doreen throughout her journey, and the amazing staff at Pilgrim’s Hospice who provided kind and gentle care for our mom in her final days.

Doreen’s family, her friends and her community will miss her so much! Everyone is welcome to celebrate Doreen’s life on Sunday, November 19th at 10:30 am at the Derrick Golf and Winter Club (3500 119 Street NW).

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation, may do so to Pilgrim’s Hospice, the Edmonton Humane Society or a local charity that you feel honors Doreen’s remarkable spirit.