Doreen Margaret Richardson

Doreen Margaret Richardson 15 January, 1936 - 13 July, 2020

Born and raised in Toronto, Ontario, the daughter of Henry Bertram (Harry) Richardson and Olive Margarette McLean, Doreen trained as a registered nurse with the  Sisters of St. Joseph in Toronto, graduating in 1956.  She worked initially as a missionary nurse with the Sisters in northern Alberta.  She always recalled fondly that she was nicknamed “wapos” (rabbit) by the Cree families that she worked with, likely due to her white nursing uniform and cap and her quick movements from task to task.  She went on to work as an RN at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Edmonton, and the Montfort Hospital in Ottawa.  Doreen then worked as a real estate agent in Ottawa in the mid 1970’s before moving to rural Manitoba, where she owned and operated a general store in Elphinstone, Manitoba.   In 1986, Doreen re-certified as an RN and moved to south Texas, where she worked for several years at the McAllen Medical Centre in the neonatal intensive care unit.  Her work there was challenging, but she also found it very rewarding.  Doreen was always happy to receive updates from families on the progress of their children months and even years after they were discharged.  Following a battle with Guillain Barre syndrome in the mid 1990’s, Doreen retired and, in 2005, she returned to the Ottawa area be closer to her family.

Doreen was a very gregarious person who thrived when she was busy and enjoyed being around people.   She was a compassionate shoulder to lean on for many people over the years, and was often appreciated for her “no nonsense” perspective.  She was happiest when she was playing bridge with friends, dancing to old time country music, fishing, boating, and golfing.  In her later years, as her health and mobility declined and dementia progressively clouded her mind, she always maintained her original spark, sense of humour and love of people.

Doreen was predeceased by her parents Harry and Olive and her older brother Keith Richardson (Cathy Brown).   She leaves behind her eldest brother Donald Richardson (Judy Klementti), her son Donald Gerrard (Denise), her daughter Lynn Lawless (David), her grandson David Lawless (Valerie MacMillan) and great grandchildren Violet, Declan and Callum, her granddaughter Katelynn Lawless, as well as nieces and nephews for whom she had a great fondness.

The family would like to express its sincere thanks to the staff at Elizabeth Bruyere Residence for their care, compassion and professionalism in looking after Doreen,  as well as their efforts to keep us informed and connected through the course of the pandemic.

A celebration of Doreen’s life will be held at a future date.   No flowers please, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Canada.