CHEDD, Doreen (Dory) Mable (nee Coulson)
Doreen passed away peacefully at Billings Lodge, Ottawa on September 11, 2019 at the age of 88 years. She is survived by daughters Cathy Brown (late Keith Richardson) Debra Vickman (Neil Hoffman) and son James (Jim) Chedd, as well as her sister Diane Nadelle (Jack). Ross Chedd, her husband of 59 years, predeceased her in 2007.
Dory took great delight in her grandchildren: Melissa Brown (Jon Harris) and Matthew Brown (Miranda); Kathleen Hayward (Luke) and Eric Vickman (Ashley); Jessica Faubert (Stefan) and Kelly Chedd. She was also a proud and beloved "GG" to their children: Charlotte and Ben Harris; Macy and Jack Brown; Oliver, Scarlett, and Eleanor Hayward ; Colton and Ava Vickman; and Sienna Faubert.
An Air Force wife, Dory spent much of her early married life on her own, while Ross was stationed in remote areas of Canada where wives and families could not be accommodated. In later years, she would pack up the household to follow Ross to postings in New Brunswick, then on to England and France, where they took advantage of the opportunity to travel as a family throughout Europe - usually camping along the way.
In 1965 the family returned to Ottawa, purchasing their home in Elmvale Acres in 1966. Working as a cashier at nearby Steinberg's supermarket for many years, Dory became a favourite of loyal, regular customers. A firm believer in the "golden rule", she was a kind and generous friend and neighbour, always willing to lend a hand to those in need.
In addition to being a devoted wife and mother of three, Dory was a wonderful homemaker and avid gardener. She kept the household running smoothly and turned the yard into a welcoming, beautiful and colourful space. Many fond memories were made during family celebrations and barbecues on the back deck. Gathering the whole family together at every opportunity was a priority, and picnics at the beach or park were a fixture of summer visits and reunions, and always much-anticipated by her visiting grandchildren.
A skilled home sewer, Dory made most of her own and her children's clothing. In addition, she also made toys and dolls, and knitted wonderful sweaters and cozy mittens. She poured a lot of love into everything she made for her family.
In their retirement, Ross and Dory enjoyed travelling south for a few weeks each winter, often inviting family to join them in Florida...further proof that you're never too old for Disney World. A wonderful driving trip through Atlantic Canada and PEI was another treasured travel memory for them.
Over the years they also enjoyed the company of many devoted canine companions. Dory adopted her beloved rescue pup "Buddy" four years ago, and they were often seen together on walks in the neighbourhood. Buddy brought her great joy, even as dementia was robbing her of so much.
Once her disease had progressed to the point where she could no longer live independently, even with family and community support, she settled into Billings Lodge - where she became well-known for her quick, wry sense of humour. Our family is grateful for the care and support she received there, particularly as her health declined as a result of several small strokes, and the dementia progressed.
Cremation has taken place; there will be a private family gathering to remember Doreen at a later date.
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