Dureen Catherine Gurden

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our cherished Mother, Sister, Aunt and Friend Dureen "Dee" Catherine Gurden.

Dureen took the next step of her journey on Wednesday, March 1st, 2023 at 74 years old. Dureen passed surrounded by the love, support and comfort of her family and friends.

Dureen was born in England just after WWII. During these hard times, Dureen and her siblings learned to enjoy family and the things they had. Dureen was a hard-working, passionate and strong-willed woman. When she emigrated to Canada in 1973, she did so totally independently, not knowing anyone here in Canada AND having never even visited before! Once Dureen arrived, she fell in love with Canada and knew that she would grow her roots here. It was not long before she made a life here that attracted the attention of her sister Lynne-Marie who joined her in Canada not long afterwards.

Dureen gave birth to her son Mark in 1987. Mark was the light of her life. Dureen dedicated herself to raising Mark and her career working with children. She became the Director of numerous childcare centres and was extremely proud of the work she did.

Dureen was diagnosed with a rare form of Vasculitis in 2009 - but she refused to let her diagnosis keep her down even though it did change her life.

Dureen was fond of her connection with nature and was also an animal lover, taking in many stray cats over the years. She was also an avid gardener and took pride in her beautiful garden.

Dureen was determined and feisty right to the end.

Dureen is survived by her son, a sister and brother, two nieces and two nephews and extended family, along with so many special and close friends, former colleagues, community members and beloved pets.

Dureen will be missed by all her loving family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. We hope that memories of Dureen will make you smile.

Our sincerest thanks to the paramedics and all the staff at Trillium Health Partners Mississauga Hospital for their compassion and kindness in caring for Dureen.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a charitable donation in Dureen's name to one of the causes she held dear including: Vasculitis Foundation Canada , Trillium Health Partners Mississauga Hospital , or the Mississauga Humane Society.

Friends will be received at St. John's Dixie Cemetery and Crematorium in the Sandalwood Room on Thursday, March 16th, 2023 from 5:00pm to 8:00pm. A small service will follow immediately following end of visiting from 8:00pm to 8:30 - anyone who wishes to stay after the visitation is welcome to do so.

We know that Dureen will be missed by the many people whose lives she touched. She would love to be remembered with funny stories and beautiful memories that celebrate her vibrant life.

A limb has fallen from our family tree
We keep hearing a voice that says:
"Grieve not for me"

Remember the best times,
The laughter, the song
The good life I lived while I was strong

Continue my heritage, I'm counting on you
Keep smiling and surely
The sun will shine through

My mind is at ease, my soul is at rest
Remember how I truly was blessed

Continue traditions, no matter how small
Go on with your life, don't worry about falls

I miss you all dearly, so keep up your chin,
Until the day comes when we are together again